The Defence R&D Organisation (DRDO) has announced a successful test for the Indian Army version of the indigenously designed, developed and produced Akash surface-to-air missile.
According to the DRDO, the test, which was conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, was part of a series of trials being conducted in various engagement modes from the first Production Model Akash systems. These will equip two regiments of the Indian Army.
Today's test flight destroyed a target in receding mode. An earlier test conducted on 21st Feb 2014 destroying an approaching target. The DRDO says, "both (tests) fully met the mission objectives and few more trials are planned in different engagement modes."
The Akash is capable of engaging aerial threats up to a distance of approximately 25 kms. The multi-target, multi-directional, all-weather air defence system consists of surveillance and tracking radars, control centres and ground support systems mounted on high mobility vehicles for the “Army” version of Akash. It will be integrated with the army's air defence command and control networks through secured communication links.
Developed by DRDO, the army version of Akash is being produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), with the involvement of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and a large number of other industries. The total production value of Akash air defence systems cleared for induction by Indian Army and Indian Air force is more than Rs 23,000 crore.
Any news on what the target was? Was it a supersonic, maneuvering target or was it another balloon?
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