India's Air Defense System Passes Crucial Test Amid Pakistani Attacks

During Operation Sindoor, India's air defense system faced its first significant test against attempted attacks from Pakistan, achieving a perfect success rate. Notably, in addition to Russia's S-400, the indigenous Akash missile defense system played a crucial role in thwarting Pakistani assaults. The development of the Akash missile took 15 years and involved the collaborative efforts of around a thousand scientists across various defense laboratories in the country. This system successfully passed its initial battlefield test along the western borders with Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted in his address to the nation how Pakistan's drones and missiles were easily neutralized by India's robust air defense capabilities.

On the nights of May 8 and 9, the Akash missile defense system effectively countered drone and missile attacks from Pakistan, demonstrating its operational utility. Indian military officials have confirmed the effectiveness of missile defense systems like Akash and S-400. Air Marshal A.K. Bharti, the Director General of Military Operations, stated that India's defense system stood firm like a wall, successfully preventing enemy infiltration.

Dr. Prahlada Ramarao, the project director and head of the fully indigenous missile shield program, expressed immense joy over Akash's successful 'fire test,' which enhances India's self-reliance in defense production. Awarded the Padma Shri, Ramarao shared that witnessing his creation perform so well brought tears to his eyes, marking one of the happiest days of his life, even surpassing the joy of receiving his Padma award.

Although the Akash missile had undergone several tests previously, this was its first deployment in a real combat scenario when Pakistan launched missile and drone attacks. Both the Indian Army and Air Force have strategically positioned this system along the western border, as it is capable of targeting aerial threats such as fighter jets, cruise missiles, air-to-surface missiles, and drones. Its real-time multi-sensor data processing and threat assessment capabilities allow it to engage multiple targets from any direction simultaneously.

According to media reports, Ramarao noted that the project commenced in 1994 with an initial budget of ₹300 crores. He acknowledged that creating something new often involves setbacks, but learning from mistakes is crucial. The project's budget was later increased to ₹500 crores. He confidently stated that it would be impossible to develop a missile defense system anywhere in the world for just ₹500 crores. The Akash system is not only the most cost-effective but also highly efficient, capable of detecting enemy missiles from 70 km away and destroying them within a 30 km range.

Dr. Ramarao, now 78, explained that since its development in 2009, the Akash system has continually evolved, resulting in various variants designed to meet different operational requirements. These include the initial Mark-I, the upgraded Akash-1S with indigenous seekers, the Akash Prime, which operates accurately in high altitudes and low temperatures, and the long-range, advanced Akash-NG.

Reports suggest that the Indian Air Force has deployed approximately 15 squadrons of the Akash system, while the Army operates four regiments and plans further acquisitions to enhance its air defense capabilities. Notably, Armenia became the first country to purchase 15 Akash missile systems from India for around ₹6,000 crores in 2022, with the first shipment sent last year to bolster its border security.