SOURCE: AFI
The Indian military is undergoing a significant air defense upgrade, with the indigenously developed Akash air defense system taking center stage. This medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system is rapidly replacing the aging SA-3 Goa (SA-11 Gadfly in NATO designation) systems, offering a substantial leap in technological prowess.
One recent example of this transition is evident in Awantipora, Kashmir. A strategically crucial location, Awantipora has witnessed the deployment of an Akash battery, effectively taking over the duties of the older SA-3 system. This move signifies a crucial step towards strengthening India’s air defense posture in the region.
Furthermore, to ensure a permanent and optimized deployment, a dedicated Akash SAM site is currently under construction at the same location in Awantipora. This purpose-built facility will provide a more robust infrastructure to house the Akash system, maximizing its effectiveness.
The Akash system boasts several advantages over its predecessor. It offers a longer range, improved accuracy, and superior target engagement capabilities. Additionally, its high maneuverability and jamming immunity make it a formidable deterrent against modern aerial threats.
This strategic shift in Awantipora complements the deployment of the Barak-8 missile defense system in Srinagar, another key city in Kashmir. The combination of these two advanced systems creates a layered air defense network, providing comprehensive protection against a wide range of aerial intrusions, from fixed-wing aircraft and drones to cruise missiles.