Akash Sam

Source: ET

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context:

• Recently the Indian ‘Iron Dome’ Akash SAM competed against the Chinese ‘Sky Dragon’ For the Brazilian Missile Deal.
• Reports indicate that Brazilian forces have started evaluating the systems, even as the South American top brass is pushing for a government-to-government deal for the Akash missiles.

About Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM):

The Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM) system is a Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile system to protect vulnerable areas and points from air attacks. Designed to neutralize aerial threats like fighter jets, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and even ballistic missiles at lower altitudes, Akash forms a vital component of India's multi-tiered air defense network.

• Purpose: Designed to protect vulnerable areas and points from air attacks.
• Design and Development: Indigenously designed and developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Production: Manufactured by Hyderabad-based Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL).
• Capabilities:
  • Neutralises aerial targets such as fighter jets, cruise missiles, and air-to-surface missiles.
  • Effective against ballistic missiles.
• Operational Service: Deployed by both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.

Features of the Akash SAM System:

• Medium-Range Defense: Akash boasts a range of 25-30 kilometers, effectively engaging aerial threats like fighter jets, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
• Supersonic Speed: With a Mach 2.5-3.5 speed, Akash ensures rapid interception of incoming targets, maximizing defense effectiveness.
• Multi-Target Engagement: The system can simultaneously track and engage multiple targets, providing a vigorous shield against coordinated attacks.
• Mobile Deployment: Mounted on mobile launchers, Akash offers high operational flexibility and can be readily deployed to defend critical infrastructure or military installations.
• Advanced Guidance System: An onboard guidance system coupled with a phased-array radar empowers Akash with precise target acquisition and tracking capabilities.
• High Maneuverability: The missile's maneuverability allows it to effectively counter even highly agile targets, enhancing its defensive potential.
• Electronic Counter-Countermeasure (ECCM) Capability: The system is equipped with features to counter enemy electronic jamming attempts, maintaining operational effectiveness even in complex electronic warfare environments.

READ ABOUT- AKASH NEW GENERATION MISSILE- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/akash-new-generation-missile#:~:text=Target%20Range%3A%20The%20Akash%20missile,and%20the%20Indian%20Air%20Force.

ALSO READ- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/akash-short-range-surface-to-air-missile-sam-system

Source

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/indian-iron-dome-akash-sam-competes/

PRACTICE QUESTION Discuss the strengths and limitations of the Akash system. Analyze its role within India's multi-layered air defense strategy and suggest potential areas for future development.