UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 18th July 2025
Akash Prime Air Defence System
Why in News?
The Indian Army successfully tested the upgraded indigenous air defence missile system Akash Prime at high altitude in Ladakh.
Introduction
In a significant step towards strengthening India’s high-altitude air defence capabilities, the Indian Army successfully conducted trials of the Akash Prime surface-to-air missile system in eastern Ladakh, at an altitude of over 15,000 feet. The trials were held in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which developed the missile system.
What is Akash Prime?
Akash Prime is an upgraded version of the Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, which is part of India’s indigenous medium-range air defence network. The system has been enhanced for greater precision and reliability, especially in challenging terrains and extreme weather conditions.
Key Features:
- Indigenous Active Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker: Ensures greater accuracy in target acquisition and engagement, regardless of weather or terrain.
- Medium-range SAM: Capable of engaging aerial threats at 25–30 km.
- Altitude Deployment: Can be deployed up to 4,500 metres, making it suitable for high-altitude warfare environments like Ladakh.
- Target Capabilities: Designed to neutralize fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, UAVs, and other aerial threats.
Operational History and Role:
- First Deployment: Used effectively during Operation Sindoor to counter potential aerial threats from Pakistan, where it showed satisfactory results.
- Regimental Induction: The system will now form part of the 3rd and 4th regiments of Akash air defence systems in the Indian Army, marking its full-scale induction.
Strategic Significance:
- Indigenisation: Strengthens India’s self-reliance in defence under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- High-Altitude Defence: Enhances India’s ability to defend its airspace in border regions like Ladakh, where aerial threats may arise amid geopolitical tensions.
- Force Multiplier: Complements other air defence platforms such as Akash-NG, Akashteer, and imported systems like S-400.
Conclusion:
The successful testing of Akash Prime in high-altitude conditions demonstrates India’s growing expertise in indigenous missile development and deployment. With enhanced accuracy, adaptability, and proven performance, Akash Prime will be a critical asset in India’s layered air defence strategy, especially in challenging border terrains.
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Economic Implications
For Indian Exporters
- These reforms reduce transaction costs and compliance hurdles
- Encourage a more competitive and efficient export environment
- Promote value addition in key sectors like leather
For Tamil Nadu
- The reforms particularly benefit the state’s leather industry, a major contributor to employment and exports
- Boost the marketability of GI-tagged E.I. leather, enhancing rural and traditional industries
For Trade Policy
- These decisions indicate a shift from regulatory controls to policy facilitation
Reinforce the goals of Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and India’s ambition to become a leading export power
Recently, BVR Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog, claimed that India has overtaken Japan to become the fourth-largest economy in the world, citing data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
India’s rank as the world’s largest economy varies by measure—nominal GDP or purchasing power parity (PPP)—each with key implications for economic analysis.
