Balasore (Odisha): In a milestone achievement, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently executed a flawless flight test of the cutting-edge New Generation AKASH (AKASH-NG) missile. The test, conducted at 10:30 AM from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, along the Odisha coast, targeted a high-speed unmanned aerial vehicle flying at an extremely low altitude.

The Ministry of Defence reported that the weapon system effectively intercepted and neutralized the designated target during the flight test. This success signifies the validation of the entire weapon system, encompassing the missile with an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker, launcher, multi-function radar, and a command, control, and communication system.

The performance of the system was further corroborated by data collected from various radars, telemetry, and electro-optical tracking systems strategically placed at the ITR, Chandipur. Senior officials from DRDO, the Indian Air Force (IAF), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) witnessed the event. The AKASH-NG system, known for its capability to intercept high-speed and agile aerial threats, has now cleared the path for User trials.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended DRDO, IAF, PSUs, and the industry for the successful flight test. He expressed confidence that the system's successful development would significantly bolster the country's air defense capabilities.

The Akash missile, a product of the Defence Research and Development Organization, has been in active service for over a decade, with ongoing advancements by the Akash Team leading to multiple advanced versions. Notably, countries in the Middle East have expressed interest in the Akash weapon system, recognizing its capabilities demonstrated in recent trials.

Indigenously designed and developed by DRDO, the Akash Weapon System is produced by defense public sector units and other industries. It has been deployed by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army for the past decade, with the latest firing conducted from a system ordered in September 2019 as a repeat order from the IAF.

The Akash weapon system has not only received orders from international customers but is also undergoing continuous upgrades by DRDO scientists. Prospects for additional orders from Southeast Asia and the Middle East remain high as the system continues to evolve.

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