In a significant boost to India’s air defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully completed the final User Evaluation Trials (UET) of the Akash-New Generation (Akash-NG) missile system.
The trials, conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, mark the final milestone before the system is formally inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army.
Key Highlights of the Successful Test
The recent trials were designed to push the system to its limits, testing its performance in “near-boundary” and extreme scenarios.
• Diverse Target Interception: The missile successfully intercepted high-speed aerial targets at both very low altitudes and long-range high altitudes.
• Precision and Accuracy: The system demonstrated high precision using its indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, which allows the missile to track and home in on targets autonomously in the final phase.
• System Validation: All sub-systems, including the Multi-Function Radar (MFR), Command and Control Unit, and the Missile Launch Vehicle (MLV), performed seamlessly under operational conditions.
Technical Specifications: How Akash-NG Differs
The “Next Generation” variant is a significant upgrade over the legacy Akash systems, offering better mobility and a more lethal reach.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operational Range | Approximately 70–80 km (Up from 25–30 km in legacy versions) |
| Maximum Speed | Mach 2.5 to 3.0 (Supersonic) |
| Propulsion | Dual-pulse solid rocket motor (Provides better energy management) |
| Launch System | Canisterized (Allows for quicker deployment and longer shelf life) |
| Reaction Time | Less than 10 seconds from target acquisition to launch |
Why This Matters
- Countering Modern Threats: The Akash-NG is specifically designed to neutralize highly maneuverable aerial threats with low radar cross-sections, such as stealth fighters, cruise missiles, and agile drones.
- Strategic Autonomy: Developed under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, the missile is almost entirely indigenous. This reduces dependence on foreign defense imports and strengthens India’s sovereign defense manufacturing.
- Export Potential: Following the success of the original Akash in international markets (e.g., Armenia), the NG variant is expected to be a high-demand product for export to friendly nations.
Final Steps toward Induction
With the successful completion of the User Evaluation Trials, the Akash-NG has met all Preliminary Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR). The system will now move into mass production, led by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
“The successful completion of the UET has paved the way for the induction of Akash-NG into the Indian Armed Forces, further strengthening our layered air defense umbrella.” — DRDO Statement, December 2025