What Makes Akash-NG Better?

The “Next Generation” version is a massive upgrade over the original Akash missile that India has used for years.

Lighter and Faster: It weighs only 350 kg, which is less than half the weight of the original (720 kg). This makes it much easier to move and hide.
Greater Reach: The range has jumped from about 25 km to nearly 80 km. It can also hit targets as high as 18 km in the sky.
High Speed: It can travel at Mach 3.5, which is more than three times the speed of sound.
“Canister” Launch: Unlike older missiles, these come in sealed containers (canisters). This keeps them safe from harsh weather and allows them to be fired much faster.

The Technology: “Smart” and Homegrown

This isn’t just a rocket; it’s a highly intelligent defense system built entirely in India.

Indigenous RF Seeker: This is the “eye” of the missile. It allows the missile to find and lock onto enemy planes or drones on its own, even if the enemy tries to jam its signal.
Dual-Pulse Motor: A special engine that can “throttle” its power, giving it an extra burst of speed just before it hits the target.
AI Integration: The missile works with the Akashteer network—an AI-driven “brain” that coordinates all of India’s air defenses to make sure no enemy threat gets through.

The success of the Akash-NG is a huge win for the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) mission.

Real-World Success: The Akash family of missiles was famously used during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. During that conflict, the system achieved a 100% kill rate, stopping every single drone and missile launched during a major incursion.
Defending the Borders: Because the new version is lighter and works well in the cold, it is perfect for deployment in the Himalayas and other difficult terrains.
Global Player: Since India can now make such advanced tech at home, it no longer needs to rely on expensive imports from other countries. In fact, India is already exporting older versions of this missile to other nations.