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Akash (missile)

2022-01-18T12:50:33Z

2601:240:CD0A:1CF6:B561:9C9E:67E9:7461: Undid revision 1066455362 by 2402:3A80:1CD6:2A3F:778:5634:1232:5476 (talk)

{{Short description|Indian surface-to-air missile series}}
{{Redirect|Akash-1S|the longer ranged pulsed rocket motor powered missile|Akash-NG|}}
{{Use Indian English|date=January 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2021}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name = Akash
| image = The 'Akash' super sonic cruise missile with a range of 25km, passes through the Rajpath during the 58th Republic Day Parade - 2007, in New Delhi on January 26, 2007.jpg
| image_size = 300
| caption = Akash missile display during Republic Day Parade in [[New Delhi]].
| origin = [[India]]
| type = Mobile [[Surface-to-air missile]] system
| is_ranged = yes
| is_missile = yes
| is_UK = 
| service = 2009-present
| used_by = [[Indian Army]] [[Indian Air Force]]
| wars = 
| designer = [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]]
| design_date =
| manufacturer = [[Bharat Dynamics Limited]]
| unit_cost = [[₹]]2 [[crore]] (US$500K)
| production_date = 2009-present
| number = 8,000 missiles till {{dts|2021}}<ref name="aviation week">{{cite news|url=http://web02.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2011/03/25/awx_03_25_2011_p0-301846.xml&headline=Indian%20Army%20Orders%20Akash%20Missile%20System|title=Indian Army Orders Akash Missile System|publisher=Aviation Week|date=25 March 2011|access-date=28 May 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece|archive-date=27 August 2017}}</ref>
| variants = Akash 1S, Akash Prime, 
[[Akash-NG]]
| speed = Mach 3.5 and 4.7<ref name="Sify"/>
| spec_label =
| weight = {{convert|720|kg|lb|abbr=on}}
| length = {{convert|578|cm|in|abbr=on}}
| part_length =
| width =
| height =
| diameter = {{convert|30|cm|in|abbr=on}} - {{convert|35|cm|in|abbr=on}}
| crew =
| passengers = 
| breech =
| recoil =
| carriage =
| elevation =
| traverse = 
| blade_type =
| hilt_type =
| sheath_type =
| head_type =
| haft_type = 
| filling = [[High-explosive]], [[Fragmentation (weaponry)|fragmentation]]
| filling_weight = {{convert|60|kg|lb|abbr=on}}
| detonation = [[Radio proximity fuze]]
| yield = 
| wingspan =
| propellant = [[Solid fuel]]
| engine = [[Solid-propellant rocket|Solid booster]] with [[air-augmented rocket]] and [[ramjet]] [[Sustainer engine|sustainer]] motor
| ceiling = {{convert|20|km|ft|abbr=on}}
| altitude = {{convert|18|km|ft|abbr=on}}
| depth =
| boost =
| accuracy =
| launch_platform = [[T-72]] or [[BMP-2]] chassis or [[Tata Motors]] Heavy Mobility Trucks<ref name="belakash">{{cite web|url=http://www.bel-india.in/Products.aspx?MId=13&LId=1&link=81|title= BEL Akash Missile System|access-date=12 May 2020}}</ref>
| guidance = '''Mid-course:''' [[Command guidance]] with [[datalink]] '''Terminal:''' [[Active radar homing]]
| transport = [[BEML]]–[[Tatra (company)|Tatra]] or [[Tata Motors]] Heavy Mobility Vehicle<ref name="belakash"/>
| vehicle_range = {{convert|100|km|mile|abbr=on}}<ref>{{ cite news | url =https://theprint.in/defence/govt-approves-export-of-indigenous-akash-missiles-as-uae-vietnam-among-others-show-interest/576658/ | title =Govt approves export of indigenous Akash missiles as UAE, Vietnam among others show interest | work =[[The Print]] |location =[[New Delhi]]|
date =30 December 2020 | first =SNEHESH ALEX | last = PHILIP |access-date =30 July 2021 | url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url =https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/bharat-dynamics-flags-off-akash-missiles-for-delivery-to-indian-army/article34217703.ece |website =Business Line | title =Bharat Dynamics flags off Akash Missiles for delivery to Indian Army | first= Rishi | last =Kumar | location =[[Hyderabad]] | date =1 April 2021 | access-date =30 July 2021 | url-status =live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url =https://www.army-technology.com/projects/akashsurfacetoairmis/ | title =Akash Surface-to-Air Missile System | website = Army Technology | access-date =30 July 2021 | url-status = live}}</ref>
}}

'''Akash''' ([[IAST]]: [[Akash|Ākāśa]] ''"Sky"'') is a medium-range mobile [[surface-to-air missile]] (SAM) system developed by the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) and produced by [[Bharat Dynamics Limited]] (BDL). Surveillance and Fire control radar, tactical control and command center and missile launcher are developed by [[Bharat Electronics]] (BEL), [[Tata Power SED|Tata Power Strategic Engineering Division]] and [[Larsen & Toubro]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/akash-surface-to-air-missile-system/|title=Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) System|website=Airforce Technology|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-11-17}}</ref><ref name="dr">[http://www.drdo.org/bnews/jan08/akash_test.htm AKASH AIR DEFENSE WEAPON SYSTEM] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080115103532/http://www.drdo.org/bnews/jan08/akash_test.htm|date=15 January 2008}}</ref><ref name=ak>[http://www.akashsam.com/akashmissile.htm AkashSAM.com] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121228145415/http://www.akashsam.com/akashmissile.htm |date=28 December 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |work=Journal of Electronic Defense Staff |title= International Electronic Countermeasures Handbook |publisher= Artech House |year= 2004 |isbn=978-1-58053-898-5|chapter=Guided Threat Systems|page=115}}</ref> The Akash missile system can target aircraft up to {{cvt|100|km}} away, at altitudes up to 18,000 m.<ref>[http://www.asiantribune.com/oldsite/show_news.php?id=12250 Asian tribune: Upgraded version of ‘Akash’ test fired; By Hemanta Kumar Rout]{{dead link|date=June 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> It has the capability to neutralise aerial targets like fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface missiles as well as [[ballistic missile]]s.<ref>[http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/akash-missile-successfully-test-fired-for-second-day/ Akash missile successfully test fired for second day, ''Dated:18 November 2014''] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706133433/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/akash-missile-successfully-test-fired-for-second-day/ |date=6 July 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-successfully-test-fires-medium-range-akash-missile-579358|title=India Successfully Test Fires Medium-Range Akash Missile|website=ndtv.com|access-date=26 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812154859/http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-successfully-test-fires-medium-range-akash-missile-579358|archive-date=12 August 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-12-13/india/27973517_1_akash-missile-nuclear-capable-multi-target-missile |title=Nuclear-capable Akash missile test fired | India News |access-date=29 May 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece |work=[[The Times of India]] |archive-date=27 August 2017 }} Nuclear-capable Akash missile test fired</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/akashsurfacetoairmis/ |title=Akash Surface-to-Air Missile System |access-date=18 May 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120527020718/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/akashsurfacetoairmis/ |archive-date=27 May 2012 }} kash Surface-to-Air Missile System, India</ref>{{Unreliable source?|reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST|date=June 2016}} It is in operational service with the [[Indian Army]] and the [[Indian Air Force]].

An Akash battery comprises a single Rajendra 3D [[passive electronically scanned array]] [[radar]] and four launchers with three missiles each, all of which are interlinked. Each battery can track up to 64 targets and attack up to 12 of them. The missile has a {{convert|60|kg|lb|abbr=on}} high-explosive, pre-fragmented warhead with a [[proximity fuse]]. The Akash system is fully mobile and capable of protecting a moving convoy of vehicles. The launch platform has been integrated with both wheeled and tracked vehicles. While the Akash system has primarily been designed as an air defence SAM, it also has been tested in a missile defense role. The system provides air defence missile coverage for an area of {{cvt|2,000|km2}}.
The Indian military's combined orders of the Akash, including radar systems (WLR and Surveillance), have a total worth of [[Indian rupee|₹]]28,800 [[crore]] (US$4 billion).<ref name="AW01"/><ref>[http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2010/10/08/awx_10_08_2010_p0-260585.xml Akash Missile Users Give Feedback To DRDO | AVIATION WEEK] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece |date=27 August 2017 }}</ref><ref>http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2011/03/25/awx_03_25_2011_p0-301846.xml {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece |date=27 August 2017 }}</ref> As per Ministry of Defence (MoD) Report 2018, existing order of Akash saved ₹34,500 crore of foreign exchange for India on imports.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kulkarni|first=Sushant|date=2021-09-28|title=Explained: What are the two advanced versions of Akash missile?|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-two-advanced-versions-of-akash-missile-7539643/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-29|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref>

==Description==
===System===
[[File:Akash missile Aero India 2011.JPG|thumb|Akash missile at Aero India 2011|alt=|left]]Each Akash battery consists of four self-propelled Launchers (3 Akash SAMs each), a Battery Level Radar - the [[Rajendra Radar|Rajendra]], and a Command post (Battery Control Centre). Two batteries are deployed as a Squadron ([[Indian Air Force|Air Force]]), while up to four form an Akash Group ([[Indian Army|Army]] configuration). In both configurations, an extra Group Control Centre (GCC) is added, which acts as the Command and Control HQ of the Squadron or Group. Based on a single mobile platform, GCC establishes links with Battery Control Centres and conducts air defense operations in coordination with air defense set up in a zone of operations. For early warning, the GCC relies on the [[Central Acquisition Radar (3D-CAR)|Central Acquisition Radar]]. However, individual batteries can also be deployed with the cheaper, 2-D BSR (Battery Surveillance Radar) with a range of over 100 km.
Akash has an advanced automated functioning capability. The 3D CAR automatically starts tracking targets at a distance of around 150 km providing early warning to the system and operators. The target track information is transferred to GCC. GCC automatically classifies the target. BSR starts tracking targets around a range of 100 km. This data is transferred to GCC. The GCC performs multi-radar tracking of up to 200 targets and carries out track correlation & data fusion. Target position information is sent to the BLR which uses this information to acquire the targets.

The BCC which can engage a target(s) from the selected list at the earliest point of time is assigned the target in real time by the GCC. The availability of missiles and the health of the missiles are also taken into consideration during this process. Fresh targets are assigned as and when intercepts with assigned targets are completed. A single shot kill probability of 88% has been achieved by the system taking into consideration various parametres of the sensors, guidance command, missile capabilities and kill zone computations.

There are a number of possibilities for deploying Akash weapon system in autonomous mode and in group mode for neutralizing the threat profiles with defined multi-target engagement scenarios. In the Group mode we can have number of configurations to defend vulnerable areas depending upon nature and expected threat pattern, characteristics of threat. Similarly, multiple batteries in autonomous mode can be deployed to defend vulnerable areas/points. In a Group formation, the four Batteries can be deployed in various geometric formations, as suited to the vulnerable area being protected and the extent desired to be sanitized from enemy air threat. In a box deployment pattern, an Akash group can defend an area of 62 km x 62 km. In a linear array configuration, it covers an area of 98 km x 44 km. Trapezoidal configuration gives defense to the largest area as compared to any other pattern of deployment covering an area of size 5,000 square km.<ref>[http://www.akashsam.com/operational.htm Akash Operational Scenarios] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707101903/http://www.akashsam.com/operational.htm |date=7 July 2011 }}</ref>

Each Akash battery can engage up to four targets simultaneously with 24 ready to fire missiles. Each battery has four launchers with three missiles, while each Rajendra able to guide eight missiles in total, with a maximum of two missiles per target. Up to a maximum of four targets can be engaged simultaneously by a typical battery with a single Rajendra if one (or two) missile is allotted per target. A single Akash missile has an 88% probability of kill. Two missiles can be fired, five seconds apart, to raise the probability of Kill to 98.5%. Communications between the various vehicles are a combination of wireless and wired links. The entire system is designed to be set up quickly and to be highly mobile for high survivability. The Akash system can be deployed by rail, road or air.

===Missile===
[[File:Akash missile test on 18 June 2014.jpg|thumb|Akash missile test fired for very low altitude near boundary mission on June 18, 2014.]]
Akash is a surface-to-air missile with an intercept range of 30 km.<ref name="Sify">[http://sify.com/finance/iaf-orders-another-750-akash-sams-news-default-kccpOceegcj.html Sify] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101127203455/http://sify.com/finance/iaf-orders-another-750-akash-sams-news-default-kccpOceegcj.html|date=27 November 2010}} article ''dated'' 2 February 2010, ''accessed'' 25 February 2010.</ref> It has a launch weight of 720 kg, a diameter of 35 cm and a length of 5.78 meters. Akash flies at supersonic speed, reaching around [[Mach number|Mach]] 2.5. It can reach an altitude of 18 km and can be fired from both tracked and wheeled platforms.<ref name="Sify" /> An on-board guidance system coupled with an actuator system makes the missile maneuverable up to 15g loads and a tail chase capability for end game engagement. A digital [[proximity fuse]] is coupled with a 55 kg pre-fragmented warhead, while the safety arming and detonation mechanism enables a controlled detonation sequence. A self-destruct device is also integrated. It is propelled by an Integrated Ramjet Rocket Engine. The use of a [[ramjet]] propulsion system enables sustained speeds without deceleration throughout its flight.<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121102871000.htm The Hindu] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104002640/http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121102871000.htm|date=4 November 2012}} article ''dated'' 11 December 2005, ''accessed'' 18 October 2006.</ref> The Missile has [[command guidance]] in its entire flight.<ref name="dr" />

The design of the missile is somewhat similar to that of the [[SA-6]] with four long tube ramjet inlet ducts mounted mid-body between wings. For pitch/yaw control four clipped triangular moving wings are mounted on the mid-body. For roll control four inline clipped delta fins with ailerons are mounted before the tail. However, the internal schematic shows a different layout with an onboard digital computer, no Semi-active seeker, different propellant, different actuators and [[command guidance]] datalinks. The Akash carries an onboard radio-proximity fuse.

Composite technology for Akash includes radome assemblies, booster liners, ablative liners, sustainer liners, compression molded wings and fins.<ref name="Frontier India">{{cite web|url=http://frontierindia.net/iaf-initiates-process-for-inducting-akash-and-trishul-sams|title=IAF initiates process for inducting Akash and Trishul SAM's|website=Frontier India|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616174211/http://frontierindia.net/iaf-initiates-process-for-inducting-akash-and-trishul-sams|archive-date=16 June 2012|access-date=24 December 2014}}</ref>

===Propulsion===
The Akash, like the Russian [[2K12 Kub]] (SA-6 Gainful), utilizes an integrated [[ramjet|ramjet-rocket propulsion system]], which, after initial rocket motor burnout, provides sustained thrust for the missile throughout its flight until interception.

===Radars===
{{main|Rajendra Radar}}

[[File:Rajendra Radar during Republic Day 2019.jpg|thumb|left|Rajendra Radar during [[Republic Day]], 2019]]

The missile is guided by a [[phased array]] fire control [[radar]] called '[[Rajendra Radar|Rajendra]]' which is termed as Battery Level Radar (BLR) with a tracking range of about 60 km.<ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/akash.htm Global Security.Org] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080117224950/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/akash.htm |date=17 January 2008 }} article ''accessed'' 18 October 2006.</ref> The tracking and missile guidance radar configuration consists of a slewable phased array antenna of more than 4,000 elements, spectrally pure TWT transmitter, two stage [[Superheterodyne receiver|superheterodyne]] correlation receiver for three channels, high speed digital signal processor, real time management computer and a powerful radar data processor.<ref name="About Akash">[http://www.akashsam.com/about.htm About Akash] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707102052/http://www.akashsam.com/about.htm |date=7 July 2011 }}</ref> It can track 64 targets in range, azimuth and height and guide eight missiles simultaneously in ripple fire mode towards four targets. The radar has advanced ECCM features. The Rajendra derivative on a [[BMP-2]] chassis and to be used by the Indian Air Force is known as the Battery Level Radar-II whereas that for the Army, is based on a [[T-72]] chassis and is known as the Battery Level Radar-III.

The Army version also consists of the Battery Surveillance Radar (BSR). BSR is a track vehicle based, long range sensor, interfaced with the BCC. It can detect and track up to 40 targets in range and azimuth up to a range of 100 km.<ref>[http://www.akashsam.com/radar.htm Akash Radars] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721192237/http://www.akashsam.com/radar.htm |date=21 July 2011 }}</ref>

Long range target acquisition is performed by the [[Central Acquisition Radar (3D-CAR)|3D Central Acquisition Radar (3D CAR)]], which is a long range surveillance radar that can track up to 200 targets in [[Track while Scan]] mode (detecting, tracking and processing) in three dimensions at a range of 180 km. It provides azimuth, range and height coordinates of targets to the Group Control Centre (GCC) through secure communication links. The data is used to cue the weapon control radar.<ref name="About Akash" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_227.shtml|title=Aero India 2003 - Part 6|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141010180852/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_227.shtml|archive-date=10 October 2014}}</ref>

===Platforms===
[[File:AKASH Missiles.jpg|thumb|[[File:Akash_SAM.jpg|alt=|frameless|173x173px]]Akash Missiles on a [[BMP-2]] chassis. |alt=|179x179px]]
The Army's radar and launchers are based on the T-72 chassis built by the [[Ordnance Factories Board]]'s [[Ordnance Factory Medak]] to accompany the Army's fast moving armoured formations.<ref name="bs-armyakash">{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/army-warms-up-to-akash-missile-109110700042_1.html|title=Army warms up to Akash missile|first=Ajai|last=Shukla|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=7 November 2009|access-date=26 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816131825/http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/army-warms-up-to-akash-missile-109110700042_1.html|archive-date=16 August 2016}}</ref> The Air Force versions use a combination of tracked and wheeled vehicle. The Air Force Akash launcher consists of a detachable trailer which is towed by a [[Tata Motors|Tata]] truck, which can be positioned autonomously. The Air Force launcher is designed by [[Larsen & Toubro]] jointly with DRDO.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.larsentoubro.com/heavy-engineering/products-services/defence-aerospace/land-weapon-systems/missile-launchers/|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180625064119/http://www.larsentoubro.com/heavy-engineering/products-services/defence-aerospace/land-weapon-systems/missile-launchers/|archive-date = 2018-06-25|title = Missile Launchers | Heavy Engineering | L&T India}}</ref> Both the Army and Air Force launchers have three ready-to-fire Akash missiles each. The launchers can slew in both elevation and azimuth. The Army Self-Propelled Launcher (ASPL) is 360 degrees slewable and its arc in elevation is from 6 to 60 degrees. The Akash Air Force Launcher (AAFL) is 360 degree slewable, in elevation it can fire from 8 to 55 degrees in all directions depending on the mode of deployment.<ref>[http://www.akashsam.com/launchers.htm Akash Launchers] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721192208/http://www.akashsam.com/launchers.htm |date=21 July 2011 }}</ref> Akash Air force launcher features an All electro servo drive system for fully automated and remote operation.<ref name="Frontier India" />
To enable the Akash group to perform self-sufficient in the combat zone, a number of supporting specialist vehicles have been designed and developed. They are mobile and field-worthy. Their design is based on the role and task to be performed and the vehicles are accordingly allocated to the Group HQ, the Batteries, Assembly Line Area and the Field maintenance workshop. Some of the vehicles are: the Missile Transportation Vehicle (MTV), the Transportation and Loading Vehicle (TLV), the Mobile Station for Missile Checkout (MSMC) Vehicle, the Air Compressor Vehicle (ACV), the Power Supply vehicles (GPSV, BPSV), the Engineering Support, Maintenance and Repair vehicles (GEM, BEM) and a few others. These specialist vehicles assemble and prepare missiles, deliver them to Batteries, carry maintenance spares and fuel, and provide logistical engineering support. Their allocation provides for flexibility and self-sufficiency to the whole Akash Group.<ref>[http://www.akashsam.com/support_vehicles.htm Akash Support Vehicles] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721192305/http://www.akashsam.com/support_vehicles.htm |date=21 July 2011 }}</ref>

==Development and history==
===Mark-I===
The first test flight of Akash missile was conducted in 1990, with development flights up to March 1997.

Two Akash missiles intercepted two fast moving targets in simultaneous engagement mode in 2005. 3-D [[Central Acquisition Radar (3D-CAR)]] group mode performance is also fully established.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://frontierindia.net/iaf-initiates-process-for-inducting-akash-and-trishul-sams/|title=IAF initiates process for inducting Akash and Trishul SAM's|website=Frontier India|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100325051818/http://frontierindia.net/iaf-initiates-process-for-inducting-akash-and-trishul-sams/|archive-date=25 March 2010|access-date=24 December 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3629|title=Defense19|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924034320/http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3629|archive-date=24 September 2015|access-date=24 December 2014}}</ref>

The Akash Missile Development cost of ₹1,000 crore (€150 million; $200 million), including the project sanction of ₹600 crore (€90 million; $120 million), is 8-10 times lower than the cost of similar system developments in other countries. Akash has certain unique characteristics like mobility, all-the-way-powered flight till target interception, multiple target handling, digitally-coded command guidance and fully automatic operation.<ref name="AW01"/>

==== Variants ====
[[File:Akash MK-1S missile test on 27 May 2019 - 1.jpg|thumb|Akash-1S missile test on 27 May 2019|alt=|left]]

=====Akash-1S=====
There was demand from [[Indian Armed Forces]] for a missile with a seeker that can target inbound targets more accurately for which the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]] offered an upgraded Akash with an indigenous seeker named Akash-1S. DRDO tested Akash-1S on 25 May and 27 May 2019 with a strike range of 30 km that has the capability to carry warhead of 60 kg from Integrated Test Range (ITR), [[Chandipur, Odisha|Chandipur]], [[Odisha]] with the overall performance of indigenous seeker and guidance system consistently established during the period. Akash-1S was fired five times against multiple targets and successfully completed the trials.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.india.com/news/india/drdo-successfully-test-fires-akash-1s-surface-to-air-defence-missile-3672505/|title=DRDO Successfully Test Fires Akash-1S Surface to Air Defence Missile|last=Desk|first=India com News|date=2019-05-27|website=India.com|language=en|access-date=2019-11-17}}</ref> It supports the combination of both command and active terminal seeker guidance to enhance the single shot kill probability<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jagranjosh.com/current-affairs/drdo-successfully-test-fires-akash-mk-1s-missile-1559017874-1|title=DRDO successfully test fires AKASH MK-1S missile|date=2019-05-28|website=Jagranjosh.com|access-date=2019-11-17}}</ref> and is capable of striking down fighter jets and drones at a distance of around 18 to 30 km that can be fired from both tracked and wheeled platforms for greater mobility.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mynation.com/india-news/drdo-successfully-tests-akash-mk-1s-6-features-that-make-it-a-potent-missile-ps7gk9|title=DRDO successfully tests AKASH MK-1S: 6 features that make it a potent missile|website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd|access-date=2019-11-17}}</ref>

=====Akash Prime=====
[[File:AkashPrimeSAM.jpg|thumb|Akash Prime test launch on 27 September 2021.]]
On 27 September 2021, DRDO test fired a new version of missile called Akash Prime. It intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target mimicking enemy aircraft, in its maiden flight. Akash Prime is based on the existing Akash SAM. The missile is equipped with an improved active radio-frequency (RF) seeker to further increase the accuracy. Akash Prime is also optimized for low temperature and high altitude operations with modified ground system.This new missile has a range of 40–50 km .<ref>{{Cite web|last=Negi|first=Manjeet|date=2021-09-27|title=Akash Prime, new version of Akash missile, successfully destroys unmanned aerial target during flight test|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/index/story/drdo-tests-new-version-of-akash-missile-akash-prime-in-odisha-1857913-2021-09-27|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-27|website=India Today|language=en}}</ref>

=== Akash-NG ===
{{main|Akash-NG}}

A successor missile with a new design '''Akash - New generation''' abbreviated as [[Akash-NG]] was approved in September 2016 with a funding of {{INRConvert|470|c|lk=|year=2016}} to succeed Akash and Akash-1S with improved capabilities.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=158007|title=DRDO Projects|date=3 February 2017|website=[[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]]|via=[[Press Information Bureau]]|access-date=2019-10-28}}</ref> Akash-NG will have an improved reaction time and higher level of protection against saturation attacks. The second stage uses [[Pulsed rocket motor|dual-pulse solid rocket motor]] which is lighter instead of air-breathing solid ramjet engine to increase the overall range from current 40 km to greater than 100 km, an [[active electronically scanned array]] Multi-Function Radar (MFR) and optical [[proximity fuze]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oneindia.com/india/next-generation-akash-ng-add-new-diamension-india-s-air-defence-capabilities-2817050.html|title=Next generation Akash-NG to add new diamension to India's air defence capabilities|last=SV|first=Vikas|date=2018-12-04|website=oneindia|language=en|access-date=2019-11-17}}</ref>

==Status==
Each missile is expected to have starting costs below US$500,000 i.e. under ₹2 crore<ref name="drdo.org">{{cite web |url=http://www.drdo.org/dpi/prahlada_interview.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=25 September 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080418015036/http://www.drdo.org/dpi/prahlada_interview.html |archive-date=18 April 2008 }}</ref> which is less than half the cost of similar Western missiles which usually cost between US$1.2-1.5 million (₹5-6 crore) each.<ref name="IAF Hindu">{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121102871000.htm|title=National : Akash missile achieves a milestone|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104002640/http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121102871000.htm|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=2005-12-11|archive-date=4 November 2012}}</ref> It is expected that this cost will further decrease due to the [[economies of scale]] achieved as production ramps up.<ref name="drdo.org" /> The Indian military (IAF & IA) have a combined order worth ₹23,300 crore ($5.18 billion).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defencenow.com/news/127/bharat-dynamics-limited-signs-largest-ever-deal-with-army-for-akash-missiles.html|title=Bharat Dynamics Limited Signs Largest Ever Deal With Army for Akash Missiles|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224223609/http://www.defencenow.com/news/127/bharat-dynamics-limited-signs-largest-ever-deal-with-army-for-akash-missiles.html|archive-date=24 December 2014}}</ref>
On 24 May 2012, India successfully test fired Akash missile to revalidate technology and operational efficacy.<ref>{{cite news
|title=Surface-to-air Akash missile test fired successfully
|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-24/india/31838238_1_akash-missile-integrated-test-range-array-radar
|access-date=24 May 2012
|url-status=live
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece
|work=[[The Times of India]]
|archive-date=27 August 2017
}}</ref> On 1 June 2012, the Air Force version of the missile with a strike range of 25 km was successfully test fired from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=1260 |title=Defence News - India Test-Fires Air Force Version Of Akash |access-date=24 December 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120814123800/http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=1260 |archive-date=14 August 2012 }}</ref> On 3 August 2014 Akash missile test-fired from launch complex-3 of ITR at Chandipur off Odisha coast, Describing the trials as "fully successful", Director ITR said . The Air Force version has already been inducted while the Army version is in the final stage of its trial.<ref>{{Cite news|url =http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-successful-surface-to-air-akash-missile-trial-for-second-day-2010473|title =Successful surface-to-air 'Akash' missile trial for second day|date =13 August 2014|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20140813230651/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-successful-surface-to-air-akash-missile-trial-for-second-day-2010473|archive-date =13 August 2014}}</ref> The Army version was inducted on 5 May 2015, as was tweeted by [[Ministry of Defence (India)|MoD]] Spokesman.
<ref>{{Cite news|url =http://ibnlive.in.com/news/surfacetoair-short-range-akash-missile-system-to-be-inducted-into-indian-army-today/543766-3.html|title =Surface-to-air short range Akash missile system to be inducted into Indian Army today|date =5 May 2015|url-status =dead|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20150508003919/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/surfacetoair-short-range-akash-missile-system-to-be-inducted-into-indian-army-today/543766-3.html|archive-date =8 May 2015}}</ref>
<ref>{{Cite news|url =https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD/status/595482869989908481|title =Akash missile system handed over to Indian Army today|date =5 May 2015|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece|archive-date =27 August 2017}}</ref> On 16 March 2016, Director of [[Defence Research and Development Laboratory]] (DRDL), said that India is looking to double missile production to 100 per month, up from 50 to 60.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/current-affairs/india-looks-to-double-missile-production-to-100-per-month_5900481.html|title=India looks to double missile production to 100 per month|website=www.moneycontrol.com|access-date=16 March 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322011410/http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/current-affairs/india-looks-to-double-missile-production-to-100-per-month_5900481.html|archive-date=22 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.defenseworld.net/news/15613/India_To_Double_Akash_Missile_Production_To_100_Per_Month|title=India To Double Akash Missile Production To 100 Per Month|website=www.defenseworld.net|access-date=16 March 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319134452/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/15613/India_To_Double_Akash_Missile_Production_To_100_Per_Month|archive-date=19 March 2016}}</ref>

===Indian Air Force===
In December 2007, the [[Indian Air Force]] completed user trials for this missile. The trials, which were spread over ten days, were declared successful after the missile hit the target on five occasions. Multiple targets handling capability of Akash weapon system was demonstrated by live firing in C4I environment. Before the ten-day trial at Chandipur, ECCM Evaluation tests were carried out at Gwalior Air force base and mobility trials were carried out in [[Pokhran]]. The IAF had evolved the user Trial Directive to verify the Akash's consistency. The following trials were conducted: Against low-flying near-range target, long-range high-altitude target, crossing and approaching target and ripple firing of two missiles from the same launcher against a low-altitude receding target.<ref>[http://www.drdo.com/bnews/jan08/akash_test.htm DRDO report on Akash] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080409051827/http://www.drdo.com/bnews/jan08/akash_test.htm |date=9 April 2008 }}</ref>

The Indian Air force was satisfied with the performance of Akash after extensive flight trials and has decided to induct the weapon system. An order for two squadrons were placed initially, with these being inducted in 2009. The IAF found the missile performance to be satisfactory and was expected to place orders for 16 more launchers to form two more squadrons for [[Northeast India|India's northeast]] theater.<ref name="bs-armyakash" /><ref name="IAF Hindu" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?667753 |title=IAF Slams Chinese Protest to PM's Arunachal Visit |access-date=24 December 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718084228/http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?667753 |archive-date=18 July 2011 }}</ref>

In May 2008, the Indian Air Force decided to induct two squadrons (totaling 4 batteries) of Akash missile.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/iaf-inducts-the-akash-missile_10047471.html|title=IAF inducts the Akash missile|website=Thaindian News|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224225007/http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/iaf-inducts-the-akash-missile_10047471.html|archive-date=24 December 2014}}</ref>

In March 2009, [[Tata Power]]'s Strategic Engineering Division ([[Tata Power SED]]) announced that it had secured the ₹182 crore order for 16 Akash launchers to be delivered in the next 33 months.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/03/31/stories/2009033155561600.htm | location=Chennai, India | title=Tata Power unit bags defence order | date=31 March 2009 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090403074739/http://www.hindu.com/2009/03/31/stories/2009033155561600.htm | work=[[The Hindu]] | archive-date=3 April 2009 }}</ref>

In January 2010, it was revealed that the Indian Air Force had ordered for 6 more squadrons. Each squadron will consist of 125 missiles, bringing the order to 750 missiles for 6 squadrons.<ref>[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/IAF-orders-another-750-Akash-surface-to-air-missiles/articleshow/5527577.cms IAF orders another 750 Akash surface-to-air missiles] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100413104043/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/IAF-orders-another-750-Akash-surface-to-air-missiles/articleshow/5527577.cms |date=13 April 2010 }}</ref> The first two squadrons will consist of 48 missiles each<ref>[http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2010/04/27/awx_04_27_2010_p0-222589.xml&headline=IAF%20To%20Get%20Akash%20Missiles%20This%20Year IAF To Get Akash Missiles This Year] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece |date=27 August 2017 }}</ref> while future squadrons will vary in number depending on the IAF. The additional missiles were ordered from state-run defence behemoth [[Bharat Electronics]], who will act as the system integrator, at a cost of {{Indian Rupee}}4,279 crore ($925 million).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/business/iaf-orders-another-750-akash-sams_100313537.html|title=IAF orders another 750 Akash SAMs|website=Thaindian News|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224224204/http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/business/iaf-orders-another-750-akash-sams_100313537.html|archive-date=24 December 2014}}</ref>

On 3 March 2012, the missile was officially inducted into Indian Air force at function at [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]].<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/article2951593.ece?homepage=true | location=Chennai, India | work=The Hindu | first=T. S. | last=Subramanian | title=Torpedo, Akash missile to be handed over to Navy and IAF on Saturday | date=2 March 2012 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece | archive-date=27 August 2017 }}</ref>

IAF orders may also rise as it phases out its [[S-125 Neva/Pechora|Pechora]]s and if the Indo-Israeli JV to develop a MRSAM (Medium Range SAM) for the IAF continues to be put on hold, while a similar program for the [[Indian Navy]] proceeds unimpeded.<ref>[http://news.indiainfo.com/2008/05/06/0805061039_indo-israel_missile_deal_on_hold.html Barak-MRSAM for IAF put on hold] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080706153436/http://news.indiainfo.com/2008/05/06/0805061039_indo-israel_missile_deal_on_hold.html |date=6 July 2008 }}</ref><ref name="Sify News">{{cite web
|url = http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14580887
|title = IAF to induct indigenous Akash missile
|access-date = 27 December 2007
|date = 26 December 2007
|website = Sify News
|publisher = Sify News
|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071231181012/http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14580887| archive-date= 31 December 2007 | url-status= dead}}</ref><ref>[http://www.business-standard.com/common/news_article.php?leftnm=lmnu2&subLeft=1&autono=311447&tab=r Missile mission meets target] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110511142259/http://www.business-standard.com/common/news_article.php?leftnm=lmnu2&subLeft=1&autono=311447&tab=r |date=11 May 2011 }}</ref>
On 6 June 2012, [[Indian Air Force|IAF]] successfully test fired the Air Force version of Akash missile from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-06/india/32078355_1_akash-missile-integrated-test-range-anti-aircraft-defence-system | title=Air Force version of 'Akash' missile successfully test-fired | date=6 June 2012 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece | work=[[The Times of India]] | archive-date=27 August 2017 }}</ref> Indian Air Force tested Akash missiles taken from the production lot on 26 April 2014 against maneuvering targets at extreme ranges. The test was a success.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/two-akash-missiles-tested/article5951555.ece|title=Two Akash missiles tested|author=Special Correspondent|website=The Hindu|date=26 April 2014|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140427151108/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/two-akash-missiles-tested/article5951555.ece|archive-date=27 April 2014}}</ref>

In February 2010, the Indian Air Force accepted the Akash missile system as a substantial part of its arsenal.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/markets/missile-boost-for-bel-110020300150_1.html|title=Missile boost for BEL|first=B. S.|last=Reporter|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=3 February 2010|access-date=26 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308234505/http://www.business-standard.com/article/markets/missile-boost-for-bel-110020300150_1.html|archive-date=8 March 2016}}</ref>

In November 2014 Surface-to-air supersonic missile Akash on Friday completed its training user trials successfully for 5 straight days validating all mission parametres as set by the Indian Air Force (IAF) team.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2014/11/21/Akash-Missile-Completes-Training-User-Trials/article2534505.ece | title=Akash Missile Completes Training User Trials | publisher=The New Indian Express | date=22 November 2014 | access-date=28 November 2014 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205045627/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2014/11/21/Akash-Missile-Completes-Training-User-Trials/article2534505.ece | archive-date=5 December 2014 }}</ref>

On 10 July 2015, the Akash surface-to-air missile was formally inducted in the Indian Air Force at [[Gwalior]].<ref>{{Cite web|title = IAF gets Akash missile shield|url = http://www.dailyexcelsior.com/iaf-gets-akash-missile-shield/|website = Jammu Kashmir Latest News {{!}} Tourism {{!}} Breaking News J&K|access-date = 30 December 2015|language = en-US|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227122720/http://www.dailyexcelsior.com/iaf-gets-akash-missile-shield/|archive-date = 27 December 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Ingeniously-built Aakash missile inducted in IAF : India, News - India Today|url = http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ingeniously-built-aakash-missile-inducted-in-iaf/1/450574.html|website = indiatoday.intoday.in|access-date = 30 December 2015|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151027162319/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ingeniously-built-aakash-missile-inducted-in-iaf/1/450574.html|archive-date = 27 October 2015}}</ref>

On 1 September 2015, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the purchase of seven additional squadrons of the Akash missile for the Indian Air Force.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|title = DAC clears projects worth over Rs. 13,000 cr.|url = http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/dac-clears-projects-worth-over-rs-13000-cr/article7604956.ece|newspaper = The Hindu|date = 2 September 2015|access-date = 30 December 2015|issn = 0971-751X|language = en-IN|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/dac-clears-projects-worth-over-rs-13000-cr/article7604956.ece|archive-date = 27 August 2017}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title = Govt clears defence projects worth Rs 15,000 crore - Times of India|url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Govt-clears-defence-projects-worth-Rs-15000-crore/articleshow/48762974.cms|website = The Times of India|access-date = 30 December 2015|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151202051130/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Govt-clears-defence-projects-worth-Rs-15000-crore/articleshow/48762974.cms|archive-date = 2 December 2015}}</ref>[[File:Exercise Vayu Shakti 2019 01.jpg|thumb|Night launch of Akash missile in Vayu Shakti Exercise 2019.|alt=|left]]On 28 January 2016, the missile was successfully test fired from complex-3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipuri in Odisha. As part of a user trial from the ITR, three rounds of test were carried out by the Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel aiming at para-barrel target. Tests were aimed at gauging the flight consistency and effectiveness of the missile, besides ascertaining the serviceability of the system in various conditions.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Akash missile successfully test fired in Chandipuri, Odisha: Interesting facts : Current Affairs|url = http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/akash-missile/1/582597.html|website = indiatoday.intoday.in|access-date = 29 January 2016|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160131011806/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/education/story/akash-missile/1/582597.html|archive-date = 31 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Indian armed forces to test Akash missiles as part of user trials|url = http://www.ibtimes.co.in/indian-armed-forces-test-akash-missiles-part-user-trials-664851|website = International Business Times, India Edition|date = 28 January 2016|access-date = 29 January 2016|language = en|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160129074501/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/indian-armed-forces-test-akash-missiles-part-user-trials-664851|archive-date = 29 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|title = India test fires Akash missiles|url = http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-test-fires-akash-missiles/article8163440.ece|newspaper = The Hindu|date = 28 January 2016|access-date = 29 January 2016|issn = 0971-751X|language = en-IN|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160128172037/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-test-fires-akash-missiles/article8163440.ece|archive-date = 28 January 2016}}</ref><ref name="Army-TechIndiaTestFires"/>

On 8 March 2016, Indian Air Force(IAF) demonstrated the missile at the exercise Iron Fist 2016.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/column-iron-fist-2016-indian-air-force-s-greatest-show-of-air-power-2191190|title=Iron Fist 2016: Indian Air Force's greatest show of air power {{!}} Latest News & Updates at Daily News & Analysis|website=dna|date=19 March 2016|language=en-US|access-date=19 March 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320124817/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/column-iron-fist-2016-indian-air-force-s-greatest-show-of-air-power-2191190|archive-date=20 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.newsx.com/national/23267-iaf-showcases-indigenous-fighter-plane-tejas-in-iron-fist-exercise|title=IAF showcases indigenous fighter plane 'Tejas' in Iron Fist Exercise|website=NewsX|access-date=19 March 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320222755/http://www.newsx.com/national/23267-iaf-showcases-indigenous-fighter-plane-tejas-in-iron-fist-exercise|archive-date=20 March 2016}}</ref>

A Comptroller and Auditor General report released in 2017 stated that due to lack of adequate storage facilities, the life span of the missiles may be affected. In addition, there was a 30% failure rate during testing of missiles in inventory with 6 out of 20 missiles failing to hit their targets.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/akash-missiles-siliguri-corridor-cag-chinese-air-force-chickens-neck/1/1013688.html |title=Akash missiles, aimed at downing Chinese fighter jets in northeast, not installed: CAG |access-date=28 July 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813053639/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/akash-missiles-siliguri-corridor-cag-chinese-air-force-chickens-neck/1/1013688.html |archive-date=13 August 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/news/report/made-in-india-akash-missile-worth-rs-3600-crore-fails-test/20170728.htm |title='Made-in-India' Akash Missile, worth Rs 3,600 crore, fails test |access-date=28 July 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728192354/http://www.rediff.com/news/report/made-in-india-akash-missile-worth-rs-3600-crore-fails-test/20170728.htm |archive-date=28 July 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.livemint.com/Industry/KrjvlDB9ictx2eEnoZHJlJ/Akash-missile-reported-30-failure-rate-says-CAG.html |access-date=28 July 2017 |title=Akash missile reported 30% failure rate, says CAG |date=28 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729050807/http://www.livemint.com/Industry/KrjvlDB9ictx2eEnoZHJlJ/Akash-missile-reported-30-failure-rate-says-CAG.html |archive-date=29 July 2017 |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 28 and 29 November 2017, the Indian Air Force carried out 3 tests of the missile from Launch Complex 3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) against electronic targets.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/nov/28/supersonic-akash-missile-test-fired-against-electronic-target-1713166.html|title=Supersonic Akash missile test fired against electronic target|work=The New Indian Express|access-date=29 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201042211/http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/nov/28/supersonic-akash-missile-test-fired-against-electronic-target-1713166.html|archive-date=1 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/nov/29/two-rounds-of-surface-to-air-missile-akash-successfully-test-fired-1714187.html|title=Two rounds of Surface-to-Air Missile Akash successfully test fired|work=The New Indian Express|access-date=29 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201035927/http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/nov/29/two-rounds-of-surface-to-air-missile-akash-successfully-test-fired-1714187.html|archive-date=1 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 3 December 2020, the Indian Air Force carried out 10 missile firing at [[Suryalanka Beach|Suryalanka]] to bolster its capability among [[2020 China–India skirmishes|ongoing]] Indo-Sino border tension. The missiles were fired to validate different scenario and majority of the missiles scored a direct kill further establishing the efficacy of Akash missile.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://aninews.in/news/national/general-news/amid-china-border-conflict-iaf-testfires-10-akash-missiles-to-shoot-down-enemy-fighters20201204144801/|title=Amid China border conflict, IAF testfires 10 Akash missiles to 'shoot down' enemy fighters|publisher=ANI|author=Ajit K Dubey|access-date=6 December 2020|date=4 December 2020}}</ref>

===Indian Army===
[[File:Akash missiles during Republic Day 2017.jpg|thumb|Akash missiles during Republic Day 2017 parade]]
In June 2010, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) placed an order of the Akash missile system, valued at ₹12,500 crore ($2.8 billion). [[Bharat Dynamics]] (BDL) will be the system integrator and nodal production agency for the Akash Army variant.<ref name="AW01">[http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2010/06/09/awx_06_09_2010_p0-233041.xml Akash Missile System For Indian Army OK'd] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece |date=27 August 2017 }}</ref> The Army plans to induct two regiments of the missile.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/india-eyes-producing-more-akash-missiles-bel-expects-windfall/118021/on|title=India eyes producing more Akash missiles, BEL expects windfall|author=Press Trust of India|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=2 December 2010|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013051825/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/india-eyes-producing-more-akash-missiles-bel-expects-windfall/118021/on|archive-date=13 October 2012}}</ref>

In March 2011, a report indicates that the Indian Army has ordered 2 Akash regiments – approximately 2,000 missiles – worth ₹14,000 crore ($3.1 billion).<ref>[http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2011/03/25/awx_03_25_2011_p0-301846.xml Indian Army Orders Akash Missile System] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece |date=27 August 2017 }}</ref> These will replace the Indian Army's 2 SA-6 Groups (25 systems with 1,500 missiles), which were inducted between 1977 and 1979.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sipri.org/databases/armstransfers|title=SIPRI Arms Transfers Database|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141216034008/http://www.sipri.org/databases/armstransfers/|archive-date=16 December 2014}}</ref>

On 5 May 2015 Akash Missile was inducted into the Indian Army.<ref name="defencewire">{{cite web |title=Akash Missile Supersonic System inducted by Indian Army |url=http://www.defencewire.com/army/akash-missile-supersonic-system-inducted-by-indian-army/ |date=5 May 2015 |access-date=5 May 2015 |publisher=Defence Wire |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece |archive-date=27 August 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/boost-to-armys-air-power-to-get-medium-range-missile-by-2020/articleshow/60244300.cms|title=Boost to Army's air power; to get medium range missile by 2020 - Times of India|work=The Times of India|access-date=27 August 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece|archive-date=27 August 2017}}</ref>

On 11 to 13 April 2015, Indian Army successfully conducted six rounds of user trials of the missile. The tests were conducted from complex 3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipuri in Odisha. The missiles targeted pilot less target aircraft (PTA) [[DRDO Lakshya|Lakshya]], unmanned air vehicle (UAV) 'Banshee' and a para barrel target, two times each.<ref name="Army-TechIndiaTestFires">{{Cite web|url=http://www.army-technology.com/news/newsindia-test-fires-akash-supersonic-missile-4862036|title=India test fires Akash supersonic missile|website=Army Technology|access-date=12 April 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415023732/http://www.army-technology.com/news/newsindia-test-fires-akash-supersonic-missile-4862036|archive-date=15 April 2016}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST|date=June 2016}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/User-Trial-of-Akash-Missile-System-By-Indian-Army-Successful/2016/04/12/article3375372.ece|title=User Trial of Akash Missile System By Indian Army Successful|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=12 April 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415114245/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/User-Trial-of-Akash-Missile-System-By-Indian-Army-Successful/2016/04/12/article3375372.ece|archive-date=15 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-akash-missile-test-fired-for-second-consecutive-day-2201470|title=Akash missile test fired for second consecutive day {{!}} Latest News & Updates at Daily News & Analysis|website=dna|date=12 April 2016|language=en-US|access-date=12 April 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416234549/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-akash-missile-test-fired-for-second-consecutive-day-2201470|archive-date=16 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://odishasuntimes.com/2016/04/12/surface-to-air-akash-missile-successfully-test-fired-in-odisha/|title=Surface-to-air Akash missile successfully test fired in Odisha|website=OdishaSunTimes.com|access-date=12 April 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423211556/http://odishasuntimes.com/2016/04/12/surface-to-air-akash-missile-successfully-test-fired-in-odisha/|archive-date=23 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/Akash-Missile-System-Successfully-Demonstrates-Killing-Efficiency/2016/04/14/article3379377.ece|title=Akash Missile System Successfully Demonstrates Killing Efficiency|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=14 April 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416203925/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/Akash-Missile-System-Successfully-Demonstrates-Killing-Efficiency/2016/04/14/article3379377.ece|archive-date=16 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/akash-missile-test-fired-successfully-for-third-consecutive-116041300920_1.html|title=Akash missile test fired successfully for third consecutive|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=13 April 2016|access-date=14 April 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419051748/http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/akash-missile-test-fired-successfully-for-third-consecutive-116041300920_1.html|archive-date=19 April 2016|agency=Press Trust of India}}</ref>

On 30 March 2016, Indian Army stated that Akash area defence missile systems did not meet its operational requirements for defending its strike corps against enemy air attacks in forward areas, and was not ordering any more regiments. The Army instead was opting for four Israeli quick reaction SAM regiments.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Enough-of-Akash-says-Army-as-it-opts-for-Israeli-missiles/articleshow/51608406.cms|title=Enough of Akash, says Army as it opts for Israeli missiles - Times of India|access-date=14 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923215900/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Enough-of-Akash-says-Army-as-it-opts-for-Israeli-missiles/articleshow/51608406.cms|archive-date=23 September 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.indiandefensenews.in/2016/03/indias-missile-program-in-peril-as-army.html|title=India's Missile Program in Peril as Army Dumps Rs 1,000 Cr Akash Missiles {{!}} Indian Defence News|website=www.indiandefensenews.in|access-date=14 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160820203523/http://www.indiandefensenews.in/2016/03/indias-missile-program-in-peril-as-army.html|archive-date=20 August 2016}}</ref>
The missile was inducted into the Indian Army in May 2015. The Army is scheduled to get two Akash regiments by 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/akash-air-missile-induced-into-indian-army-arsenal-115050500557_1.html|title='Akash' air missile inducted into Indian Army arsenal|last=ANI|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=5 May 2015|access-date=26 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816190251/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/akash-air-missile-induced-into-indian-army-arsenal-115050500557_1.html|archive-date=16 August 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/akash-missile-surface-to-air-missile-army-manohar-parrikar/1/433681.html|title=Surface-to-air missile Akash to be inducted into Indian Army today|website=intoday.in|access-date=26 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818031541/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/akash-missile-surface-to-air-missile-army-manohar-parrikar/1/433681.html|archive-date=18 August 2016}}</ref> On 30 November 2017, Indian Army successfully tested fired five Akash missiles at Integrated Test Range (ITR) against multiple targets.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/indian-army-akash-missiles-air-force-china/1/1100842.html|title=Army carries out five successful tests of Akash missiles|access-date=9 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171203054037/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/indian-army-akash-missiles-air-force-china/1/1100842.html|archive-date=3 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Another test with an indigenous radio frequency seeker was successfully carried out on 5 December 2017 against a Banshee aerial drone.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/061217/india-successfully-test-fires-akash-missile-with-home-made-radio-frequency-seeker.html|title=India successfully test-fires Akash missile with home-made radio frequency seeker|date=6 December 2017|work=deccanchronicle.com/|access-date=9 December 2017|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171209155124/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/061217/india-successfully-test-fires-akash-missile-with-home-made-radio-frequency-seeker.html|archive-date=9 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=174118|title=Successful Launch of Akash Missile|website=pib.nic.in|access-date=10 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171210180012/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=174118|archive-date=10 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Deployment ==
The Indian Air Force has deployed Akash at its bases in [[Gwalior]] (Maharajpur AFS), [[Jalpaiguri]] (Hasimara AFS), [[Tezpur]], [[Jorhat]] and [[Pune]] (Lohegaon AFS).<ref>{{Cite web|title = Akash Air Defence System to be Formally Inducted Into IAF|url = http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Akash-Air-Defence-System-to-be-Formally-Inducted-Into-IAF/2015/07/08/article2909348.ece1|website = The New Indian Express|access-date = 30 December 2015|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151030193531/http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Akash-Air-Defence-System-to-be-Formally-Inducted-Into-IAF/2015/07/08/article2909348.ece1|archive-date = 30 October 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Surface-to-air missile 'Akash' inducted in IAF - Times of India|url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Surface-to-air-missile-Akash-inducted-in-IAF/articleshow/48021610.cms|website = The Times of India|access-date = 30 December 2015|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150713044811/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Surface-to-air-missile-Akash-inducted-in-IAF/articleshow/48021610.cms|archive-date = 13 July 2015}}</ref>

The Indian Army has deployed one Akash Regiment in June–July 2015, with the second one to be ready by end of 2016.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Indian Army gets muscle with Akash missile system - Rediff.com India News|url = http://www.rediff.com/news/report/defence-news-indian-army-gets-some-serious-firepower/20150505.htm|website = www.rediff.com|access-date = 30 December 2015|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160107203935/http://www.rediff.com/news/report/defence-news-indian-army-gets-some-serious-firepower/20150505.htm|archive-date = 7 January 2016}}</ref>

Indian Army deployed Akash air defence system along [[Line of Actual Control]] in [[Ladakh]] as tension rose between India and China [[2020 China–India skirmishes]].<ref>{{citation |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/ladakh-lac-akash-missile-air-defence-system-indian-army-china-latest-news-629727|title=India deploys Akash missiles at Ladakh LAC to tackle Chinese threat|access-date=27 June 2020|work=Manish Prasad|date=27 June 2020}}</ref>

==Operators==
;{{IND}}
* [[Indian Air Force]] — 13 squadrons in service, 2 more ordered.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/rs-5400-crore-deal-inked-for-7-more-squadrons-of-akash-missiles/articleshow/71116926.cms|title=Akash missile: Rs 5400 crore deal inked for 7 more squadrons of Akash missiles for IAF|last=Pandit|first=Rajat|date=13 September 2019|newspaper=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Each squadron contains 8 Launchers, 125 missiles.<ref>{{cite news |title=IAF orders another 750 Akash SAMs |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/iaf-orders-another-750-akash-sams/story-64d5JQejA3LGa5NJGbnVtL.html |work=Hindustan Times |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |date=2 February 2010 |language=en |access-date=4 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044126/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/iaf-orders-another-750-akash-sams/story-64d5JQejA3LGa5NJGbnVtL.html |archive-date=6 March 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* [[Indian Army]] — Two regiments ordered, with deliveries starting in 2015. In 2018 all deliveries completed. Two more regiments are ordered in 2019.

== Export ==
It was also reported in the media that [[Philippines]], [[Belarus]], [[Malaysia]], [[Thailand]], [[UAE]] and [[Vietnam]] have shown interest in purchasing the Akash missile system. On 30 December 2020, Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by [[Prime Minister of India|Prime Minister]] [[Narendra Modi]] cleared the exports of Akash missile defence system. Philippines signed an arms agreement with India in March 2021 to potentially acquire Indian weapons including the Akash Missile.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-01-09/india/27746640_1_gorshkov-breakthrough-india-and-russia|title=India, Russia yet to reach breakthrough on Gorshkov|date=9 January 2008|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827221431/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/more-akash-systems-for-army/article18620841.ece|work=[[The Times of India]]|archive-date=27 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/wary-of-china-india-offers-akash-missile-to-vietnam-both-countries-crank-up-their-bilateral-military-relations/articleshow/56410196.cms|url-status=live|title=Wary of China, India offers Akash surface-to-air missile systems to Vietnam|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170110023649/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/wary-of-china-india-offers-akash-missile-to-vietnam-both-countries-crank-up-their-bilateral-military-relations/articleshow/56410196.cms|archive-date=10 January 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/make-in-india-gets-a-boost-uae-expresses-interest-in-the-akash-surface-to-air-missile-system/1354325/|title=Make in India gets a boost! UAE expresses interest in the Akash surface-to-air missile system|date=19 October 2018|publisher=Financial Express|access-date=19 October 2018}}</ref>

==See also==
*[[Akash-NG]]
*[[Type 3 Chū-SAM]]
*[[KS-1 Surface-to-air missile|KS-1]]
*[[NASAMS]]
*[[Barak 8]]
*[[QRSAM]]
*[[VL-SRSAM]]
*[[Advanced Air Defence]] (AAD)
*[[Prithvi Air Defence]] (PAD)

==References==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|Akash SAM}}

* {{Official website|http://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/English/bnews/jan08/akash_test.htm}}
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YpHtSQmfxM Video of Akash missile tests]
* [http://www.drdo.org/dpi/prahlada_interview.html Interview with Dr. Prahlada from DRDO]

{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}
{{Indian missiles}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Akash Missile}}
[[Category:Surface-to-air missiles of India]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War weapons of India]]
[[Category:Defence Research and Development Organisation]]
[[Category:Military equipment introduced in the 2000s]]

Akash-NG

2022-01-18T12:44:37Z

2601:240:CD0A:1CF6:B561:9C9E:67E9:7461: Undid revision 1066454301 by 2402:3A80:1CD6:2A3F:778:5634:1232:5476 (talk)

{{Short description|Indian surface to air missile series}}
{{for|the older ramjet powered missile|Akash (missile)|}}
{{Use Indian English|date=January 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2021}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name = Akash-NG
| image = Akash-NG missile test on 25 January 2021 (cropped).jpg
| image_size = 300
| caption = Akash-NG maiden test launch.
| origin = [[India]]
| type = Medium range [[Surface-to-air missile]] system
| is_ranged = yes
| is_missile = yes
| is_UK = yes
| service = 2023 (planned)<ref name="DRDO_Chief_Comments_2021">{{cite news|last1=Jha|first1=Saurav|title=Developing Any Kind Of Missile Is Not Much Of An Issue For DRDO Anymore: Satheesh Reddy|url=http://delhidefencereview.com/2021/02/08/developing-any-kind-of-missile-is-not-much-of-an-issue-for-drdo-anymore-sateesh-reddy/|access-date=8 February 2021|work=Delhi Defence Review|date=8 February 2021}}</ref>
| used_by = [[Indian Air Force]] (planned)
| wars = 
| designer = [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]]
| design_date = 2021
| manufacturer = [[Bharat Dynamics Limited]] [[Bharat Electronics Limited]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-drdo-successfully-flight-tests-surface-to-air-missile-akash-ng-2901725|title =DRDO successfully flight-tests surface-to-air missile Akash-NG|website=DNA India|access-date=21 July 2021}}</ref>
| unit_cost =
| production_date =
| number =
| variants =
| speed =
| spec_label =
| weight =
| length =
| part_length =
| width =
| height =
| diameter =
| crew =
| passengers = 
| breech =
| recoil =
| carriage =
| elevation =
| traverse = 
| blade_type =
| hilt_type =
| sheath_type =
| head_type =
| haft_type = 
| filling = [[Fragmentation (weaponry)|Fragmentation]]
| filling_weight =
| detonation = [[Proximity fuze|Optical proximity fuze]]
| yield = 
| wingspan =
| propellant = [[Solid fuel]]
| engine = [[Pulsed rocket motor|Dual-pulse solid rocket motor]]<ref name="DRDO_Chief_Comments_2021"/>
| ceiling =
| altitude =
| depth =
| boost =
| accuracy =
| launch_platform =
| guidance = '''Mid-course:''' [[Inertial navigation system]] with two way [[datalink]] '''Terminal:''' [[Active radar homing]]
| transport =
| vehicle_range = {{convert|70|km|mile|abbr=on}}<ref name="maiden_test_hemant_rout">{{cite news|last1=Rout|first1=Hemant Kumar|title=Next-generation surface-to-air Akash missile successfully test-fired|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/jan/25/next-generation-surface-to-air-akash-missile-successfully-test-fired-2254916.html|access-date=27 January 2021|work=The New Indian Express|agency=The New Indian Express}}</ref>
}}

'''Akash - New generation''' ([[IAST]]: [[Akash|Ākāśa]] ''"Sky"'') abbreviated as '''Akash-NG''' is a medium-range mobile [[surface-to-air missile]] defense system developed by the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) and produced by [[Bharat Dynamics Limited]] (BDL) and [[Bharat Electronics]] (BEL).

This missile is a successor to the [[Akash (missile)|Akash]] and Akash-1S series of missiles with improvements such as a [[Pulsed rocket motor|Dual-pulse solid rocket motor]],<ref name="DRDO_Chief_Comments_2021"/> a canisterised launcher and an [[Active electronically scanned array|AESA]] Multifunction targeting radar to improve its probability of kill with a smaller ground operations and logistics footprint.<ref name="MoD_test_1">{{cite web|title=Successful Maiden Test Launch of Akash-NG Missile|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1692258|website=pib.gov.in|publisher=Ministry of Defence, Government of India|access-date=27 January 2021}}</ref>

The missile uses an [[Ku band|Ku-band]] Active radar seeker<ref name="DRDO_Chief_Comments_2021"/> which was revealed to the public during [[Aero India|Aero India 2021]].
== Development & Description ==
{{Expand section|date =September 2021}}
The development of the Akash-NG (New Generation) was approved in September 2016 with a funding of {{INRConvert|470|c|lk=on|year=2016}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=158007|title=DRDO Projects|date=3 February 2017|website=[[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]]|via=[[Press Information Bureau]]|access-date=2019-10-28}}</ref> Akash-NG will have an improved reaction time and higher level of protection against saturation attacks. The second stage will use [[Pulsed rocket motor|dual-pulse solid rocket motor]] which is lighter instead of air-breathing solid ramjet engine present in the earlier Akash and Akash-1S missiles to increase the overall range from current {{cvt|40|km}} to greater than {{cvt|80|km}} while also reducing the weight of the platform and the footprint of the launch platform, an [[active electronically scanned array]] Multi-Function Radar (MFR) and optical [[proximity fuze]] will improve the effectiveness of the missile against targets with low [[radar cross-section]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oneindia.com/india/next-generation-akash-ng-add-new-diamension-india-s-air-defence-capabilities-2817050.html|title=Next generation Akash-NG to add new diamension to India's air defence capabilities|last=SV|first=Vikas|date=2018-12-04|website=oneindia|language=en|access-date=2019-11-17}}</ref><ref name="MoD_test_1"/>

==Testing==
*'''Maiden Test''' : [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] successfully conducted the first test of the missile on 25 January 2021 from Launching Complex - III at the Integrated Test Range near [[Chandipur, Odisha|Chandipur]], [[Odisha]] at about 2:30 pm against an electronic target.<ref name="maiden_test_hemant_rout"/>
*'''2nd Test''' : [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] and [[Indian Air Force]] successfully conducted the 2nd test of the missile on 21 July 2021 from Launching Complex - III at the Integrated Test Range near Chandipur, Odisha at about 12:45 PM against an electronic target.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-drdo-successfully-flight-tests-surface-to-air-missile-akash-ng-2901725|title =DRDO successfully flight-tests surface-to-air missile Akash-NG|website=DNA India|access-date=21 July 2021}}</ref>
*'''3rd Test''' : [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] has successfully test-fired the Akash-NG surface-to-air missile air defence system off the coast of Odisha in [[Balasore]] at 11:45am IST on 23rd July, 2021. The test was carried out amidst inclement weather conditions proving the all-weather capability of the weapon system. The flight test has validated the functioning of complete weapon system consisting of the missile with indigenously developed RF Seeker, Launcher, Multi-Function Radar and Command, Control & Communication system. <ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1738136|title =DRDO conducts successful flight test of Akash-NG|website=PIB India|access-date=23 July 2021}}</ref>

==Operators==
;{{IND}}
* [[Indian Army]] — Planned
* [[Indian Air Force]] — Planned

==See also==
*[[Akash (missile)|Akash]]
*[[Type 3 Chū-SAM]]
*[[KS-1 Surface-to-air missile|KS-1]]
*[[NASAMS]]
*[[Barak 8]]
*[[QRSAM]]
*[[VL-SRSAM]]
*[[Advanced Air Defence]] (AAD)
*[[Prithvi Air Defence]] (PAD)
*[[XRSAM]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}
{{Indian missiles}}

[[Category:Surface-to-air missiles of India]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War weapons of India]]
[[Category:Defence Research and Development Organisation]]

Astra (missile)

2022-01-18T12:39:17Z

2601:240:CD0A:1CF6:B561:9C9E:67E9:7461: Undid revision 1066451742 by 2402:3A80:1CD6:2A3F:778:5634:1232:5476 (talk)

{{Short description|Beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile}}
{{for|the naval surface-to-air variant of the missile|VL-SRSAM|}}
{{Use Indian English|date=September 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2020}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name = Astra
| image = File:Astrabvraam.png
| image_size = 300
| alt =
| caption = Astra Mk.1
| type = [[Beyond-visual-range missile]]
| origin = India
| is_missile = yes
<-- Service history -->
| service = {{start date|2019}}–present
| used_by = *[[Indian Air Force]]
*[[Indian Navy]]
| wars = 
| designer = [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]]
| design_date =
| manufacturer = [[Bharat Dynamics Limited]]
| unit_cost = {{INRConvert|7-8|c}}
| production_date = 2017 — Present
| variants = Astra Mk.1, Mk.2, [[Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet |Mk.3]], IR, [[VL-SRSAM]]
|engine = *Astra Mk 1: [[Solid-propellant rocket]]
*Astra Mk.2: [[Dual-thrust]] [[pulsed rocket motor]] (under development)
*Astra Mk.3: [[Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet]] (under development)
| spec_label =
| weight = {{cvt|154|kg}}
| length = {{cvt|3.84|m}}
| width =
| height =
| diameter = {{cvt|178|mm}}
| filling = [[High-explosive]] pre-[[Fragmentation (weaponry)|fragmented]] [[HMX]]/[[Polyurethane|PU]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=Aroor |first1=Shiv |title=How India's ASTRA Air-To-Air Missile Is Quietly Killing It |url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/2018/03/how-indias-astra-air-to-air-missile-is-quietly-killing-it.html |website=Livefist Defence |date=24 March 2018 |access-date=30 August 2020}}</ref>
| filling_weight = {{cvt|15|kg}}
| detonation = [[Radio proximity fuze]]
| yield = 
| fuel_capacity =
| vehicle_range = *Astra Mk.1: {{cvt|110|km}}
*Astra IR: {{cvt|80|km}} (under-development)
*Astra Mk.2: {{cvt|160|km}}<ref>{{cite news |last1=Pandit |first1=Rajat |title=Astra air combat missile to be soon tested from Tejas fighter |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/astra-air-combat-missile-to-be-soon-tested-from-tejas-fighter/articleshow/79357258.cms |access-date=23 October 2020 |agency=TNN |publisher=Times of India |date=23 October 2020}}</ref> (under-development)
*Astra Mk.3: {{cvt|350|km}}<ref>{{cite news |last1=Pandit |first1=Rajat |title=Astra air combat missile to be soon tested from Tejas fighter |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/astra-air-combat-missile-to-be-soon-tested-from-tejas-fighter/articleshow/79357258.cms |access-date=23 October 2020 |agency=TNN |publisher=Times of India |date=23 October 2020}}</ref> (under-development)
| speed = [[Mach number|Mach]] 4.5<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bhardwaj |first1=Tarun |title=Deadly weapon! IAF successfully test-fires air-to-air missile Astra from Sukhoi-30 combat aircrafts [sic]|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/deadly-weapon-iaf-successfully-test-fires-air-to-air-missile-astra-from-sukhoi-30-combat-aircrafts/1708799/ |access-date=30 August 2020 |publisher=Financial Express |date=17 September 2019}}</ref>
| guidance = '''Mid-course:''' [[Fibre-optic gyroscope|Fibre-optic gyro]] based [[inertial navigation system]] with [[mid-course update]] via [[datalink]]. '''Terminal:''' [[Active radar homing]]
| wingspan =
| propellant = [[Solid fuel]]
| ceiling = {{cvt|20|km|ft}}
| altitude =
| accuracy =
| launch_platform = {{hlist|[[MiG-29|MiG-29UPG]] / [[Mikoyan MiG-29K|MiG-29K]]|[[Su-30MKI]]|[[HAL Tejas|Tejas Mk.1/1A]]|[[HAL Tejas Mk2|LCA Mk.2/MWF]] (Planned)|[[HAL AMCA|AMCA]] (Planned)|[[HAL TEDBF|TEDBF]] (Planned)}}
| ref = <ref name="janes-6sep17">{{cite news|last1=Bedi|first1=Rahul|title=BDL begins initial build of Astra Mk1 BVRAAM|url=http://www.janes.com/article/73576/bdl-begins-initial-build-of-astra-mk1-bvraam|work=IHS Jane's Missiles & Rockets|publisher=[[Jane's Information Group]]|date=6 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170906221508/http://www.janes.com/article/73576/bdl-begins-initial-build-of-astra-mk1-bvraam|archive-date=6 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=M. Somasekhar|title=Jaitley hands over long-range surface-to-air missile to Navy|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/jaitley-hands-over-longrange-surfacetoair-missile-to-navy/article9832349.ece|work=[[The Hindu Business Line]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|date=27 August 2017}}</ref><ref name="vayu-sep15"/><ref name="thehindu-22may15">{{cite news|title=Astra missile successfully tested again|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/astra-missile-successfully-testfired-again/article7233219.ece|author=Y. Mallikarjun|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|date=22 May 2015|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref name=":0" /><ref name=":01">{{cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1635916|title=DAC approves capital acquisition of various platforms & equipment worth Rs 38,900 crore|publisher=PIB India|access-date=2 July 2020}}</ref>
}}

'''Astra''' ({{Lang-sa|अस्त्र|lit=weapon}}<ref>{{cite news|title=India tests air-to-air Astra missile again|agency=[[Deutsche Presse-Agentur]]|date=26 March 2007|via=[[NewsBank]]}}</ref>) is an Indian all weather [[Beyond Visual Range missile|beyond-visual-range]] [[active radar homing]] [[air-to-air missile]], developed by the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]]. It is the first air-to-air missile developed by India. Astra is designed to be capable of engaging targets at varying range and altitudes allowing for engagement of both short-range targets at a distance of {{convert|10|km|mi|abbr=on}} and long-range targets up to a distance of {{convert|110|km|mi|abbr=on}}.<ref name="jdw-6may14"/><ref name="thbl-18sep17">{{cite news|author1=M. Somasekhar|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/after-successful-development-trials-astra-missile-ready-for-production/article9864087.ece|title=After successful development trials, Astra missile ready for production|date=18 September 2017|work=[[The Hindu Business Line]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|language=en}}</ref> Astra has been integrated with [[Indian Air Force|Indian Air Force's]] [[Sukhoi Su-30MKI]] and will be integrated with [[Dassault Mirage 2000]], [[HAL Tejas]] and [[Mikoyan MiG-29]] in the future. Limited series production of Astra missiles began in 2017.<ref name="janes-6sep17"/><ref>{{cite news|last1=Rout|first1=Hemant Kumar|title=Indian Air Force likely to start trials of Astra missile from today|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/aug/31/indian-air-force-likely-to-start-trials-of-astra-missile-from-today-1650442.html|work=[[The New Indian Express]]|publisher=Express Publications (Madurai)|date=31 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/astra-missile-test-successful-more-power-to-the-iafs-fighter-planes/1328010/|title=Astra Missile Test successful: More power to the IAF's fighter planes|date=2018-09-26|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|access-date=2019-09-20}}</ref>

== Description ==
Astra's older design resembled [[Super 530|Matra Super 530D]] and [[R-77|Vympel R-77]] in a few aspects.<ref name="jdw-6may14">{{cite news|last1=Udoshi|first1=Rahul|title=India successfully tests home-grown Astra AAM |url=http://www.janes.com/article/37521/india-successfully-tests-home-grown-astra-aam |work=[[IHS Jane's Defence Weekly]]|publisher=[[Jane's Information Group]]|date=6 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140517051207/http://www.janes.com/article/37521/india-successfully-tests-home-grown-astra-aam|archive-date=17 May 2014}}</ref> Astra is {{convert|3.6|m|ft|abbr=on}} long with a diameter of {{convert|178|mm|in|abbr=on}} and weighs {{convert|154|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. It uses mid-course [[Inertial navigation system|inertial guidance]] driven by [[fibre optic gyroscope]] with [[terminal guidance]] through [[active radar homing]].<ref name="toi-5may14">{{cite news |last1=Pandit |first1=Rajat |title=First successful Astra test gives boost to air missile technology |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/First-successful-Astra-test-gives-boost-to-air-missile-technology/articleshow/34652986.cms|work=[[The Times of India]]|publisher=[[The Times Group]]|date=5 May 2014}}</ref> It is capable of receiving course corrections through a secure data link. The missile's active radar seeker with a homing range of {{convert|25|km|mi|abbr=on}} is supplied by Agat and will be manufactured locally.<ref name="vayu-sep15">{{cite magazine|last1=Majumdar|first1=Sayan|title=Astra – The Spear for Air Dominance|url=http://www.vayuaerospace.in/Issue/vayu-issue-Vayu-Issue-V-Sep-Oct-2015.pdf|magazine=Vayu Aerospace and Defence Review|date=September–October 2015|issue=5|pages=56–57|publisher=Society for Aerospace Studies}}</ref> The seeker can lock-on to a target with a radar cross section of 5 square metres from a distance of 15 km and enables off-boresight launches up to an angle of 45°.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Richardson|first1=Doug|title=India's Astra uses an AGAT seeker|journal=IHS Jane's Missiles and Rockets|date=1 April 2017|volume=17|issue=4|publisher=[[Jane's Information Group]]|location=Coulsdon}}</ref> Some tests have been conducted in 2017 and 2018 using an indigenous seeker developed by [[Research Centre Imarat]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Reddy |first1=U. Sudhakar |title=Final trials of air-to-air missile Astra successful |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/in-other-news/160917/final-trials-of-air-to-air-missile-astra-successful-1.html |work=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |date=16 September 2017 |language=en}}</ref><ref name="scd-report41" /><ref name="ht-26sep18">{{cite news |title=Indigenously developed air-to-air missile Astra successfully test fired |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indigenously-developed-air-to-air-missile-astra-successfully-test-fired/story-1KXLnNJoMeaoOVovnlh5KI.html |work=[[Hindustan Times]] |publisher=[[HT Media]] |agency=[[Press Trust of India]] |date=26 September 2018 |language=en}}</ref>

Astra is equipped with [[electronic counter-countermeasure]]s to allow operation even during enemy attempts to jam the seeker using [[electronic countermeasure]]s. It carries a {{convert|15|kg|lb|abbr=on}} [[high explosive]] pre-fragmented warhead activated by a [[proximity fuse]].<ref name="vayu-sep15" /> Astra uses a smokeless solid fuelled motor that can propel the missile to a speed of Mach 4.5 and allows operation from a maximum altitude of {{convert|20|km|ft|abbr=on}}.<ref name="thehindu-22may15" /><ref name="vayu-sep15" /> The maximum range of Astra is {{convert|110|km|mi|abbr=on}} in head-on chase mode and {{convert|20|km|mi|abbr=on}} in tail chase mode.<ref name="thbl-18sep17" /> The maximum range is achieved when the missile launched from an altitude of {{convert|15|km|ft|abbr=on}}. When it is fired from an altitude of {{convert|8|km|ft|abbr=on}}, the range drops to {{convert|44|km|mi|abbr=on}} and when it is launched from sea level, the range drops further to {{convert|21|km|mi|abbr=on}}.<ref name="thehindu-22dec12">{{cite news|author1=Y. Mallikarjun|author2=T. S. Subramanian|title=Astra missile test-fired successfully|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Astra-missile-test-fired-successfully/article12457627.ece|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|date=22 December 2012|language=en-IN}}</ref> Astra's low [[Aspect ratio (aeronautics)|aspect ratio]] wings allow it to engage manoeuvring targets up to a range of {{convert|90|km|mi|abbr=on}} in head-on chase mode and {{convert|60|km|mi|abbr=on}} in tail chase mode.<ref name="vayu-sep15" /> It can be launched in both autonomous and buddy mode operation and can lock on to its target before or [[Lock-on after launch|after]] it is launched.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jha|first=Saurav|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/blogs/sauravjha/2976/64918/drdos-international-coming-out-party-in-seoul-features-new-pragati-tactical-missile-system.html|title=DRDO's international coming out party in Seoul features new Pragati tactical missile system|publisher=IBNLive|date=26 October 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029132054/http://ibnlive.in.com/blogs/sauravjha/2976/64918/drdos-international-coming-out-party-in-seoul-features-new-pragati-tactical-missile-system.html|archive-date=29 October 2013}}</ref>

== Development ==
Preliminary work on Astra had begun by 1990 with the completion of a pre-feasibility study.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Beech|first=Eric|date=2–8 May 1990|title=India researches air-to-air missile|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1990/1990%20-%201243.PDF|publisher=[[Reed Business Information]]|volume=137|issue=4214|page=15|issn=0015-3710|magazine=[[Flight International]]}}</ref> Astra was revealed to the public for the first time at Aero India 1998.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Gethin|first=Howard|date=16–22 December 1998|title=India unveils Astra but keeps wraps on LCA|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1998/1998%20-%203358.PDF|publisher=[[Reed Business Information]]|magazine=[[Flight International]]}}</ref> It was described as an elongated [[Super 530|Matra Super 530D]] with a smaller diameter in front of the wings.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Astra-test-may-be-delayed/articleshow/6009784.cms|title=Astra test may be delayed|date=6 April 2002|work=[[The Times of India]]|publisher=[[The Times Group]]}}</ref> The project to develop Astra missile was officially sanctioned in 2004 with a budget of {{INRConvert|955|c|year=2004}}.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Pandit|first1=Rajat|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/10-years-in-making-Astra-advanced-air-combat-missile-may-be-ready-in-2016/articleshow/49682035.cms|title=10 years in making, Astra advanced air combat missile may be ready in 2016|date=6 November 2015|work=[[The Times of India]]|publisher=[[The Times Group]]}}</ref> The project was to be led by [[Defence Research and Development Laboratory]] with assistance from [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] and [[Electronics Corporation of India Limited]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=M. Somasekhar|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/bline/2004/06/17/stories/2004061702730500.htm|title=DRDL to develop Astra missile|date=17 June 2004|work=[[The Hindu Business Line]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]}}</ref> The initial version of Astra reportedly weighed {{convert|300|kg|lb|abbr=on}} with a range of {{convert|25|–|40|km|mi|abbr=on}} and was planned to be integrated with [[HAL Tejas]]. It was tested for the first time in May 2003.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=T. S. Subramanian|date=24 May – 6 June 2003|title=An Astra in the armoury|url=http://www.frontline.in/static/html/fl2011/stories/20030606003509800.htm|magazine=[[Frontline (magazine)|Frontline]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|volume=20|issue=11|issn=0970-1710}}</ref>

The missile was redesigned around 2006 due to control issues and performance deficiencies at high altitude. The initial design of four cruciform [[Wingspan|short-span]] [[Chord (aeronautics)|long-chord]] wings were replaced by [[Delta wing#Design variations|cropped delta]] wings placed near the nose. The redesigned missile had an improved propulsion system and was tested for the first time in 2008.<ref name="jmr-apr11">{{cite journal|last1=Hewson|first1=Robert|date=April 2011|title=Astra redesign paves way for ramjet AAM|journal=Jane's Missiles and Rockets|location=Coulsdon|publisher=[[Jane's Information Group]]|volume=15|issue=4|page=3}}</ref> By 2013, the missile had been redesigned again in response to multiple failures caused by adverse interactions between flight control surfaces.<ref name="toi-1july2013">{{cite news|last1=Pandit|first1=Rajat|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Long-delayed-Astra-missile-will-finally-be-test-fired/articleshow/20852126.cms|title=Long-delayed Astra missile will finally be test-fired|date=1 July 2013|work=[[The Times of India]]|publisher=[[The Times Group]]}}</ref> The control, guidance, and propulsion systems were also reconfigured.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Richardson|first1=Doug|date=1 February 2017|title=Redesigned Astra completes three ground launches|journal=IHS Jane's Missiles and Rockets|location=Coulsdon|publisher=[[Jane's Information Group]]|volume=17|issue=2}}</ref> After the second redesign, the missile was lighter than the initial version by around {{cvt|130|kg}}. It was tested from the ground thrice in December 2012 and captive trials from a Sukhoi Su-30MKI were held in April 2013.<ref name="thehindu-25dec12">{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/third-astra-launch-too-a-success/article4236048.ece|title=Third Astra launch too a success|date=25 December 2012|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|language=en-IN}}</ref><ref name="toi-1july2013"/>

Astra completed final development trials in September 2017 and was cleared for production at Bharat Dynamics Limited's manufacturing facility in Bhanur, [[Telangana]] for an initial order of 50 missiles. An additional order of 248 missiles were placed for [[Indian Air Force]] and [[Indian Navy]] for use on various platforms like [[Sukhoi Su-30MKI]], [[HAL Tejas]], [[MiG-29]] / [[Mikoyan MiG-29K|MiG-29K]]. Taking the total order number to 298 missiles.<ref name="thbl-18sep17" /><ref name="janes-6sep17"/><ref name=":01"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessworld.in/article/Air-Force-to-get-33-new-fighter-jets-248-indigenous-Astra-missiles/02-07-2020-293377/|title=Air Force to get 33 new fighter jets, 248 indigenous Astra missiles|publisher=BusinessWorld|access-date=2 July 2020}}</ref>

==Variants==
===Air-to-air missile versions===
{{see|Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet}}

[[File:Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) missile being tested on 8 February 2019.jpg|left|thumb|Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) propulsion technology being tested by DRDO from Chandipur, Odisha, on February 8, 2019]]

After the deployment of Astra Mk. 1, several offshoot version are being planned including [[Dogfight|within visual range]] [[Infrared_homing#Imaging_systems| imaging Infra-red homing]] missile tentatively classified as Astra IR, whereas trials for a longer range version Astra Mk. 2 and a further development called Astra Mk. 3 is being planned.<ref name=":1">{{cite news |last1=Pandit |first1=Rajat |title=Astra air combat missile to be soon tested from Tejas fighter |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/astra-air-combat-missile-to-be-soon-tested-from-tejas-fighter/articleshow/79357258.cms |access-date=23 October 2020 |agency=TNN |publisher=Times of India |date=23 October 2020}}</ref>

Astra Mk. 2 will use [[Pulsed rocket motor|dual-pulse solid rocket motor]] for extended reach and better kinematics during the kill phase. The missile will share smokeless propulsion of its predecessor Mk. 1, whilst imbibing newer technologies being implemented in other missile program of [[DRDO]] like [[Barak 8]] and [[Rudram-1]].<ref name="jdw-6may14" /><ref name="jmr-apr11" /> The plan is to extend the range of Mk. 2 version to {{convert|160|km}} rivaling American [[AIM-120 AMRAAM|AMRAAM AIM 120-D]]. Astra Mk. 2 variant will make use of indigenous [[Active radar homing|seeker]] manufactured by [[Bharat Electronics Limited]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/02/14/youngsters-india-defence-technology-satheessh-reddy.html|title=Interview {{!}} Youngsters can power India into a defence technology leader: Dr Satheesh Reddy|website=OnManorama|language=en|access-date=2020-02-17}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/15-years-on-drdos-supersonic-missile-ready-for-iaf-fighters/articleshow/71355843.cms|title=15 years on, DRDO's supersonic missile ready for IAF fighters|last=Pandit|first=Rajat|date=29 September 2019|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref>

The testing for the Mk. 2 variant is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2022 with focus on improving the range by the use of dual-pulse motor and increasing the indigenous content to 100% inline with [[Atmanirbhar Bharat]] mission.<ref name="print-151220">{{cite web|url=https://theprint.in/defence/india-working-on-next-astra-missile-with-160-km-range-as-mk1-is-integrated-in-iaf-navy/566699/|title=India working on next 'Astra' missile with 160 km range as Mk1 is integrated in IAF & Navy|publisher=The Print|date=15 December 2020|access-date=26 February 2021}}</ref>

A future variant Mk. 3 based on [[Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet]] (SFDR) engine is being jointly developed by [[India]] and [[Russia]].<ref name="et">{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-tastes-only-partial-success-in-ramjet-test/articleshow/64423073.cms|title=India tastes only partial success in Ramjet test|last=Pubby|first=Manu|date=2018-06-02|work=[[The Economic Times]]|access-date=2019-10-11}}</ref> The missile was first tested on 30 May 2018 and further test was carried out on 8 February 2019.<ref name=pib1>{{Cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=179682|title=Successful Flight Test of SFDR|date=31 May 2018|website=[[Press Information Bureau|Press Information Bureau, Government of India]]|access-date=2019-10-11}}</ref><ref name=pib2>{{Cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=188278|title=Successful Flight Test of SFDR|date=8 February 2019|website=[[Press Information Bureau|Press Information Bureau, Government of India]]|access-date=2019-10-11}}</ref> The aim of the program to develop an indigenous missile rivaling [[PL-15]], [[AIM-260 JATM]] and [[MBDA ]][[Meteor (missile)|Meteor missile]] with a range of {{cvt|350|km}}.<ref name=":1" />

===Surface-to-air missile versions===
{{Main|VL-SRSAM}}
[[File:Maiden launch of VL-SRSAM by DRDO (cropped).jpg|225x225px|thumb|Maiden launch of VL-SRSAM by DRDO from Chandipur, Odisha on February 22, 2021]]
To fulfill the need of [[Indian Navy]]'s replacement of [[Barak-1]] short range [[surface-to-air missile]] system, DRDO successfully test fired two VL-SRSAM on 22 February 2021 at [[Odisha]] coast. The maiden launch tested the efficacy of vertical launch system and missile's maximum and minimum range. Both the missile successfully intercepted their target with pin point accuracy.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1700039|title=Successful Launches of VL-SRSAM Missile System|publisher=PIB|date=22 February 2021}}</ref>

VL-SRSAM supersedes the cancelled [[Maitri (missile)|Maitri missile]] project undertaken jointly by [[MBDA]] and [[DRDO]] based on the work done on [[MICA (missile)|MICA]] and [[Trishul (missile)|Trishul]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Rout|first=Hemant Kumar|date=23 February 2021|title=DRDO conducts successful flight test of VL-SRSAM|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2021/feb/23/drdo-conducts-successful-flight-test-of-vl-srsam-2267748.html|access-date=2021-02-23|website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> The missile will arm Indian Navy ships like [[Kamorta-class corvette]] with short range air defense system. The missile use [[Thrust_vectoring#Exhaust_vanes|jet vane based thrust vectoring]] control to give high maneuverability to the missile. The missile maybe guided by [[Central acquisition radar (3D-CAR)|Revathi radar]] which is extensively being used in Indian Navy ship like [[Kamorta-class corvette]]. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/indian-navys-ship-based-air-defence-missile-contest-begins-today/|title=Indian Navy's Ship-based Air Defence Missile Contest Begins Today|publisher=Livefist|date=17 October 2019}}</ref>

[[Indian Air Force]] may also sport VL-SRSAM in truck-based launcher to supplement its [[Akash (missile)|Akash surface-to-air missile]] as a quick reaction system similar to Norwegian/American [[NASAMS#NASAMS 2|NASAM 2]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/not-keen-on-nasams-ii-iaf-wants-indian-missile-defence/|title=Not Keen On NASAMS-II, IAF Wants Indian Missile Defence|publisher=Livefist|date=20 July 2020}}</ref>

== Trials ==
Astra went through a series of ground tests from 2003 till 2012 in three different configurations to validate the airframe, propulsion system, control system, dual mode guidance and night firing capability. Carriage trials were carried out in 2009 and 2013 on Sukhoi Su-30MKI.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Tur|first1=Jatinder Kaur|title='Astra' carriage trials with Su-30 begins|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Astra-carriage-trials-with-Su-30-begins/articleshow/26955534.cms|work=[[The Times of India]]|publisher=[[The Times Group]]|date=6 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/Captive-flight-trials-of-Astra-missile-carried-out/article16889657.ece|location=Chennai, India|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|first=Ravi|last=Sharma|title=Captive flight trials of Astra missile carried out|date=1 November 2009}}</ref> In May 2014, it was fired for the first time in air.<ref name="thehindu-4may14">{{Cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Astra-successfully-test-fired-from-Sukhoi-30-MKI/article11626648.ece|title=Astra successfully test-fired from Sukhoi-30 MKI|author=Y. Mallikarjun|date=4 May 2014|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> On 18 March 2016, the missile was fired in public during Iron Fist 2016 exercise from a Sukhoi Su-30MKI.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Chopra|first1=Anil|title=Iron Fist 2016: Indian Air Force's greatest show of air power|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/column-iron-fist-2016-indian-air-force-s-greatest-show-of-air-power-2191190|work=[[Daily News and Analysis]]|date=19 March 2016}}</ref> During a series of seven tests in September 2017, Astra was tested twice with an indigenous seeker.<ref name="scd-report41">{{cite web|title=Forty first report of the Standing Committee on Defence (2017–2018)|url=http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Defence/16_Defence_41.pdf|publisher=Lok Sabha Secretariat|location=New Delhi|page=59|date=March 2018}}</ref> During user trials in 2019, Astra hit a target at a distance of {{cvt|90|km}}.<ref>{{cite news |title=IAF, DRDO carry out test firing of Astra air-to-air missile |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/iaf-drdo-carry-out-test-firing-of-astra-air-to-air-missile-119091801432_1.html |work=Business Standard |date=18 September 2019}}</ref>

The flight trials on the indigenous built [[HAL Tejas]] are expected to begin in the first half of 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|last=P|first=Rajat|date=November 23, 2020|title=Astra air combat missile to be soontested from Tejas fighter|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/astra-air-combat-missile-to-be-soon-tested-from-tejas-fighter/articleshow/79357258.cms|access-date=2020-12-20|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref>

==Operators==

;{{Flagu|India}}
* [[Indian Air Force]]
* [[Indian Navy]]

==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:Astra missile launched from a ground-based launcher.jpg|Astra tested from ground-based launcher during initial developmental trial.
File:ASTRA, the indigenously developed Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), successfully test fired by the Indian Air Force from Su-30 aircraft, from Air Force Station, Kalaikunda on September 26, 2018.JPG|Astra fired from an [[Indian Air Force]] [[Sukhoi Su-30MKI|Su-30MKI]]
File:Astra BVRAAM successfully test fired from Su-30MKI off the Odisha coast on September 17, 2019.jpg|Su-30 MKI fires an Astra missile
</gallery>

==See also==
{{Div col |colwidth=22em}}
* [[AIM-120 AMRAAM]]
* [[Derby (missile)]]
* [[MICA (missile)]]
* [[R-77]]
* [[R-27 (air-to-air missile)|R-27EA]]
* [[PL-12]]
* [[R-Darter]]
* [[Meteor (missile)|Meteor]]
* [[PL-15]]
{{div col end}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{wikinews|India test-fires 'Astra' missile}}
* [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/astra.htm Globalsecurity]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20150504064032/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/MISSILES/aam/astra-aam.html Bharat Rakshak]

{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}
{{Indian missiles}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Astra Missile}}
[[Category:Defence Research and Development Organisation]]
[[Category:Air-to-air missiles of India]]
[[Category:Guided missiles of India]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War weapons of India]]
[[Category:Military equipment introduced in the 2010s]]

'''Technical:'''
* [https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/technology-focus-documrnt/TF_May-Jun_2018_web.pdf DRDO Technology Focus : Warhead for Missiles, Torpedoes and Rockets]