Indian Army Successfully Tests Akash Prime Air Defence System at 15,000 ft in Ladakh

In a major boost to India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Indian Army successfully tested the Akash Prime air defence missile system at over 15,000 feet altitude in Ladakh. This significant trial underscores India’s growing competence in high-altitude warfare and its commitment to self-reliant defence production. With its upgraded seeker and precision-strike capabilities, the Akash Prime variant represents a technological leap in India’s surface-to-air missile systems, especially in securing strategic borders against aerial threats.

Background of Akash Prime

Akash Prime is an advanced variant of the original Akash surface-to-air missile system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Designed for medium-range air defence, the Akash system has been deployed extensively by both the Indian Army and Air Force to guard against aerial threats, particularly along border regions with Pakistan and China. The new version—Akash Prime—enhances India’s air defence shield by incorporating precision targeting and high-altitude operability.

Significance of the Ladakh Trial

The successful testing of the Akash Prime system in the challenging high-altitude terrain of Ladakh is a significant achievement. The trials were conducted by the Army Air Defence Corps with DRDO scientists and demonstrated the missile’s ability to achieve direct hits on fast-moving aerial targets in thin air. This operational readiness enhances India’s preparedness in high-altitude conflicts, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC), where air threats are increasingly dynamic.

Role in Operation Sindoor

The Akash Prime system was previously deployed during Operation Sindoor, a strategic Indian Army operation aimed at neutralising drone attacks and ceasefire violations from Pakistan. Taking place during the night of May 8–9, 2025, this operation saw the destruction of over 50 drones, and the Akash Prime played a crucial role in repelling the coordinated offensive, showcasing its real-time combat utility against Chinese-origin aircraft and Turkish-made drones.

Features and Capabilities

Akash Prime boasts an improved seeker for enhanced tracking and accuracy in all weather conditions. It is capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously using phased array radar and command guidance. The system supports both autonomous and group modes, making it flexible for deployment across varied terrains. It offers 360-degree protection and is especially suited for defending critical military installations and moving columns.

Self-Reliant Defence and Future Induction

The development and testing of Akash Prime align with India’s broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) in defence manufacturing. The successful trials pave the way for the formation of the third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence system using this advanced variant. Its induction will further strengthen India’s layered air defence architecture, enhancing national security against evolving aerial threats.