By Mohammad Omar Malik
Balasore, Odisha, Jul 25: Missile Akash-NG, also known as Akash New Generation, is a medium-range surface-to-air missile capable of intercepting and neutralising fast and agile aerial threats. This missile can also carry a nuclear warhead.
The Defense Research and Development Organization successfully tested Akash-NG twice in three days (DRDO). On July 21st, the missile lifted off from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Balasore Port, Odisha, at roughly 12:45 hours. The second test was successfully conducted on July 23, 2021, at 11:45 hours.
The test range was equipped with technology such as a Multifunction Radar, Command, Control, and Communication System, and a launcher, which aided in deployment configuration. ITR used a variety of range stations, including an Electro Optical Tracking System, Radar, and Telemetry, to collect test flight data. According to these results, Akash-NG worked perfectly in all needed fields and was launched with textbook precision.
Akash-NG can fly at a maximum speed of Mach 2.5, or over 860 meters per second, and at a maximum height of 18 KM. It can target airborne targets such as fighter jets, drones, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and so on from a distance of about 30 KM. It can be launched from both stationary tanks and moving objects such as warships and vehicles.
The missile system was developed through the collaboration of many DRDO laboratories. Several representatives from the Indian Air Force and DRDO were present for the launch. Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh complimented the DRDO, (BDL) Bharat Dynamics Limited, (BEL) Bharat Electronics Limited, Indian Air Force, and other labs engaged, for their efforts in making the test flight a success.