BEL successfully completes delivery of 100 Akashteer Advanced ADCRS to the Indian Army
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| Akashteer is more than just an air defence system—it is a sophisticated, integrated control and reporting system designed to neutralize enemy threats swiftly. (Photo source: X/@BEL_CorpCom) |
Amid heightened global security concerns, the Indian Army has significantly enhanced its air defence capabilities with the acquisition of 100 Akashteer air defence systems. Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), these advanced Air Defence Control and Reporting Systems (ADCRS) will serve as a critical asset in safeguarding the country from aerial threats, including missile and rocket attacks. The successful delivery of these systems underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its military’s self-reliance and modernizing its defence infrastructure.
A New Milestone in Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
The journey toward acquiring these 100 Akashteer systems began in March 2023, when the Ministry of Defence contracted BEL, a government undertaking, for their production. The contract, worth nearly INR 2,000 crore, was part of India’s broader push towards indigenization and enhancing the country’s defence capabilities. In March 2024, BEL delivered the first Akashteer system to the Indian Army. By September 30, 2024, all 100 units had been successfully handed over, meeting the Army’s critical operational timelines.
This rapid deployment reflects BEL’s strategic ability to deliver crucial defence systems on time, in collaboration with the Indian Army’s Army Air Defence (AAD) corps. The speed and efficiency of this delivery have reaffirmed BEL’s position as a key player in India’s defence manufacturing sector.
BEL has completed delivery of 100 Control Centres for Air Defence Control & Reporting System (Akashteer). BEL, through its DCCS SBU, started roll out of Akashteer in March '24 and had committed to deliver 100 Control Centres of Akashteer by 30th Sept '24.@DefenceMinIndia pic.twitter.com/EnjoFWB2Aa
— Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) (@BEL_CorpCom) October 2, 2024
The Role of Akashteer in Air Defence
Akashteer is more than just an air defence system—it is a sophisticated, integrated control and reporting system designed to neutralize enemy threats swiftly. The system is capable of managing all aspects of air defence for the Army, integrating multiple radar systems, sensors, and communication technologies into a single operational framework.
The Akashteer system provides a real-time battlefield view, allowing military personnel to detect, track, and engage aerial threats such as incoming missiles or enemy aircraft. It brings together various surveillance assets, radar systems, and communication nodes, enabling precise coordination of air defence operations. This enhances the Indian Army’s ability to monitor airspace and deliver timely responses to any imminent threats.
The system’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of operational environments. Whether deployed along contested borders or in strategic urban areas, Akashteer strengthens the Army’s capability to protect key assets and infrastructure from aerial attacks.
Importance in the Broader National Security Context
The integration of 100 Akashteer systems into the Indian Army’s defence architecture is critical, especially in the context of evolving global threats. The recent missile attacks in regions like Israel highlight the importance of having robust air defence systems capable of responding to advanced and high-speed missile threats. In this regard, Akashteer offers India the ability to monitor and respond to such attacks in real-time, reducing the risk of damage to strategic assets and military installations.
Additionally, this acquisition comes at a time when regional security concerns, including tensions with neighbouring countries, have underscored the need for India to upgrade its defence systems. With the successful induction of Akashteer, the Indian Army has further fortified its defence against missile and rocket attacks, making it better equipped to handle potential conflicts or hostile incursions.
Boosting Self-Reliance through Indigenous Technology
The Akashteer program exemplifies India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. By producing the systems domestically, India is not only reducing its dependency on foreign defence imports but also creating high-tech jobs and fostering innovation within the country.
Bharat Electronics Limited, the manufacturer of Akashteer, has been a leader in indigenous defence technologies. Its expertise in building complex, integrated systems has allowed India to develop advanced capabilities independently, keeping pace with global technological advancements in defence.
The Future of Indian Air Defence: Hypersonic Developments
Beyond Akashteer, India is also looking towards future advancements in missile technology. Lieutenant General Adosh Kumar, the Director General of Artillery in the Indian Army, recently revealed that the country is actively developing hypersonic missiles. These missiles, still in the research and development phase, are expected to significantly bolster India’s artillery and missile capabilities once operational.
Hypersonic missiles, which travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound (Mach 5), are known for their speed and evasive abilities, making them difficult to intercept. As global superpowers like the United States, Russia, and China advance their hypersonic missile programs, India is positioning itself to be a part of this exclusive group. The development of indigenous hypersonic missiles represents the next frontier in India’s defence capabilities, alongside the already formidable BrahMos missile system, which currently forms the backbone of the Army’s long-range strike capability.
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