World | India
Indian Air Force inducts Akash missile
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has decided to induct two squadrons of the indigenous Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM).
- IANS
- Published: 23:52 May 11, 2008
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has decided to induct two squadrons of the indigenous Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM).
The all-weather, multi-target missile was accepted by the IAF recently after nine successful field trials, including a ripple fire in the electronic clutter, according to Dr Prahlada (uses only one name), Distinguished Scientist and Chief Controller in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Prahlada is quoted in the coming issue of India Strategic defence magazine as saying that although the missile was declared ready for induction after a December 2007 test, some fine-tuning was required and the project is now being handed over to public and private sector industries for manufacturing the required numbers.
In all the tests, he said, accuracy of the system was established.
Willingness
Besides the public sector Bharat Electronics Ltd, Bharat Dynamics Ltd and Electronics Corporation of India, the private sector Larsen and Toubro and Tata Power could be involved in its manufacture.
The army has also expressed its willingness to accept the Akash, but some modification in the launch platform for better "mobility and gradability" was being done to meet its requirement.
A squadron has 18 batteries, and the IAF requirement for the Akash type of missile is estimated at five to seven squadrons. A single battery can engage four targets simultaneously.
India Strategic quoted Prahlada as saying that while the DRDO developed a sophisticated system, its further development was always possible in accordance with availability of newer technologies.
Share this article
News Editor's choice
-
Daughters: Book on Sadat 'one-sided'
Pictorial collection excludes children from first wife
-
Over 6,000 Haj pilgrims to get vaccines
H1N1 and meningitis jabs compulsory for those going to Makkah in Saudi Arabia
-
Abu Dhabi residential city on track
Abu Dhabi Municipality says Dh651m infrastructure project to be completed
