Successful Trial of Akash Prime at High-Altitude

Ladakh, July 16, 2025 — In a landmark achievement for India’s defence preparedness, the upgraded Akash Prime weapon system successfully destroyed two high-speed aerial unmanned targets at high altitude in the Ladakh region. Designed specifically for deployment in extreme terrain above 4,500 metres, Akash Prime represents a significant technological upgrade over its predecessor, incorporating an indigenously developed Radio Frequency (RF) seeker and other enhancements based on operational feedback.

The firing trials, conducted as part of the First of Production Model validation, mark a crucial step toward the system’s timely induction into service with the Indian Army. This capability significantly enhances India’s air defence shield along high-altitude frontiers.

The trials were jointly carried out by the Indian Army’s Air Defence units and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with Defence Public Sector Undertakings Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, along with key private industry partners.

Akash Prime’s successful demonstration underscores the growing maturity of India’s indigenous defence ecosystem. The system has been fine-tuned for superior operational effectiveness, reflecting close coordination between users and developers.

This achievement follows the impressive performance of India’s air defence systems during Operation Sindoor, and reinforces the nation’s growing prowess in missile technology — a domain that is now drawing increased interest from international defence markets.

Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated the Indian Army, DRDO, and the defence industry on this significant accomplishment. He highlighted the success as a powerful boost to India’s high-altitude air defence capability.

Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also extended his congratulations to the teams involved, stating that Akash Prime has successfully met India’s critical requirements for advanced air defence in high-altitude theatres.