The Union Cabinet today gave an approval for export of indigenous Akash Missile system, aiming to achieve target of USD 5 billion of defence export and improve strategic relations with friendly foreign countries. However, the export version of Akash will be different from System currently deployed with Indian armed forces.

 The Akash missile systems have over 96 percent indigenous components and the weapon can hit targets at a range of 25 km. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the export version of Akash missiles would be different from the system currently deployed with Indian armed forces.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter in a series of tweets to announce the development. “Under the #AtmaNirbharBharat, India is growing in its capabilities of manufacturing wide variety of Defence platforms and missiles,” Mr Singh said. Akash is country’s important missile with over 96 percent indigenisation, he said.

He said Indian defence exports so far included parts and components. ''The export of big platforms was minimal. This decision by the Cabinet would help the country improve its defence products and make them globally competitive,'' the defence minister said.

Hyd-based Skyroot test-fires solid propulsion rocket stage Kalam-5

Navjot Singh Sidhu apologises for wearing shawl with Sikh religious symbols

LS Speaker Om Birla calls for probe in Dharmegowda's death