Akash missile system gains global traction following major arms deals with Armenia

New Delhi: Amid India's aim to boost export of indigenous military equipment, Akash air defence missile system is taking le, garing increased attention from various nations, including Philippines, Brazil, and Egypt, as per media reports. This surge in interest follows a substantial arms deal with Armenia, amounting to over USD 600 million for procurement of vanced missile defence system.

Delivery to Armenia and growing international interest

According to defence officials, deliveries of Akash missile system to Armenia are scheduled to commence within next few months. Simultaneously, system has garnered attention from several or countries, hinting at potential future agreements. "In interim, numerous countries, including Brazil, Egypt, and Philippines, have expressed interest in Akash missile system," confirmed defence officials.

Developed by Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Akash missile system has been actively in service for more than a dece. Its continuous evolution has resulted in multiple vanced versions being developed.

In a world first: Akash destroys 4 Tangos in a single salvo

ding to intrigue, India recently showcased unprecedented capabilities of indigenous Akash missile system during Astrashakti 2023 at Suryalanka Air Force Station on December 12. Demonstrating its firepower, a single Akash firing unit engaged four unmanned aerial targets simultaneously, displaying its precision and efficiency, marking a world-first.

Manufactured by defence public sector units in collaboration with or industries, Akash Weapon System has been effectively deployed by both Indian Air Force and Indian Army for past dece. system was initially unveiled through a firing conducted from unit ordered in September 2019, reinforcing Indian Air Force's confidence in its capabilities and rejection of NASAMs, a US system with a similar role to Akash.

Future prospects and  Global acclaim 

As per ANI, this indigenous system has not only received international acclaim but has also secured orders from international clientele, including countries in Middle East. Anticipated continuous enhancements and upgres by DRDO scientists involved in project are expected to attract more orders from regions such as South East and West Asia.

ditionally, aiming to furr inspire and engage younger generation in defence research and development, DRDO Chief Samir V Kamat inaugurated a replica of Akash missile at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Mumbai.