Akash is a medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile defense system. It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for Missile Systems, Ordnance Factories Board and Bharat Electronics (BEL) for other Systems in India.

It is in operational service with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.

The Akash system is fully mobile and capable of protecting a moving convoy of vehicles.

The missile system can target aircraft up to 30 km away, at altitudes up to 18,000 m.

It has the capability to "neutralise aerial targets like fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface missiles" as well as ballistic missiles.


Specifications-

Weight 720 kg (1,590 lb)
Length 578 cm (228 in)
Diameter 35 cm (14 in)
Warhead High-explosive, pre-fragmented warhead
Warhead weight 60 kg (130 lb)
Detonation mechanism RF proximity fuse
Propellant integral rocket motor/ramjet booster and sustainer motor
Flight ceiling 18 km (59,000 ft)
Speed Mach 3