India Starts Exporting Akash Missile System | India News | GRAVITAS

Summary

India has begun exporting its Akash missile system to Armenia, marking a significant step in the country's growing military presence in the global arms market. This versatile surface-to-air missile, developed by India's Defense Research and Development Organization, is capable of targeting aircraft, missiles, drones, and more within an 18-kilometer range. The system's adaptability, mobility, and advanced radar and tracking systems make it a robust defense solution. Armenia’s strategic shift towards India, moving away from traditional reliance on Russia, highlights India's rising influence in defense markets, with countries like the Philippines and Egypt also showing interest.

Takeaways

• 😀 India has started exporting its Akash missile system to Armenia, marking the first international sale of this advanced defense technology.
• 😀 The Akash system is a highly versatile and mobile surface-to-air missile defense system, capable of targeting fighter jets, missiles, drones, and other threats within an 18 km range.
• 😀 Developed by India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), the Akash system features a 3D radar and four launchers, each capable of firing three missiles.
• 😀 India’s move to export the Akash missile system is part of its broader strategy to increase its influence in the global arms market.
• 😀 Armenia’s purchase of the Akash missile system is seen as a shift away from its previous reliance on Russia for defense equipment.
• 😀 The export of the Akash missile system follows India’s successful export of the Brahmos missile to the Philippines, signaling India’s growing role as a defense supplier.
• 😀 India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that the export version of the Akash missile system includes over 96% indigenous components.
• 😀 The Akash system is known for its ability to operate under electronic countermeasures, with advanced radar and tracking systems that enable simultaneous target engagement.
• 😀 The system is highly mobile and can be deployed on both wheeled and tracked platforms, providing flexibility in various battle environments.
• 😀 This export of defense technology signals India’s emergence as a credible, reliable player in the global defense market, challenging established suppliers such as Russia and the US.

Q & A

What is the significance of India exporting the Akash missile system to Armenia?

The export of the Akash missile system to Armenia is significant because it marks the first time the system has been exported, showcasing India's growing military capabilities and signaling a shift in the global arms market, with India asserting influence across various regions.

What is the Akash missile system, and what are its capabilities?

The Akash missile system is a versatile surface-to-air defense weapon developed by India's Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). It is capable of targeting fighter jets, missiles, drones, and more within a range of 18 kilometers. The system is highly mobile and can operate under intense electronic countermeasures.

How is the Akash missile system structured for efficient operation?

Each Akash missile battery includes a 3D radar system, four launchers with three missiles each, and integrated elements that ensure seamless coordination to neutralize incoming threats. This system is highly adaptable to various battle environments.

What role did Sanjeev Kumar, the Secretary of the Department of Defense Production, play in the export of the Akash missile system?

Sanjeev Kumar flagged off the departure of the Akash missile systems in Bengaluru, marking the official export of the system to Armenia.

What other countries have shown interest in the Akash missile system?

Countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Egypt have shown interest in acquiring the Akash missile system, highlighting its growing international demand.

Why has Armenia sought to purchase the Akash missile system from India?

Armenia's decision to procure the Akash missile system is partly strategic. Armenia has historically relied on Russia for defense, but by purchasing the Akash system, Armenia is diversifying its defense sources, reducing dependence on Russia.

What is the value of the Akash missile systems purchased by Armenia, and what does it indicate about India's defense export potential?

Armenia has purchased 15 Akash missile systems worth approximately 6,000 crores (INR). This deal highlights India's growing position as a reliable and capable supplier in the global defense market.

What makes the Akash missile system particularly suitable for international export?

The Akash missile system is particularly suited for export because it has over 96% indigenous components, making it an attractive option for countries seeking to reduce dependence on traditional arms suppliers while gaining access to advanced defense technology.

How does the Akash missile system handle electronic warfare and countermeasures?

The Akash missile system is engineered to function effectively under electronic countermeasures, utilizing advanced radar and tracking systems that allow it to engage multiple targets simultaneously, making it highly effective in modern warfare scenarios.

What message is India sending with the export of the Akash missile system?

By exporting the Akash missile system, India is sending a clear message that it is capable of challenging traditional arms market players, positioning itself as a credible and reliable player in the global defense industry.