In recent decades, India has made unprecedented progress in developing indigenous technology in its defense sector. Organizations like the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) have developed world-class weapon systems.
These not only fortify India's security but pose a significant threat to neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan. Among these are the Akash missile, BrahMos missile, and Sky Striker suicide drones.
Famed for their precision, speed, and destructive power, these weapons have captured attention during the recent India-Pakistan skirmishes. Let's delve into their features, significance, and battlefield roles.
1. Akash Missile: Guardian of Aerial Threats
The Akash missile system is India's indigenous surface-to-air missile system developed by DRDO. This system has become a cornerstone for the Indian Air Force and Army, playing a pivotal role in air defense.
Features
Range and Altitude: The Akash missile can engage targets up to 25-45 km away and at altitudes of 18,000 meters. Capable of destroying aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and ballistic missiles.
Accuracy: More than 90% accurate, it can track 64 targets simultaneously and engage 12.
Mobility: The Akash system is fully mobile, deployable on the T-72, BMP chassis, or Tata heavy mobility trucks and performs effectively in challenging terrains.
Radar and Guidance: Equipped with Rajendra 3D passive electronically scanned array radar and command guidance systems, making it highly effective.
Recent Performance
From May 8-10, 2025, the Akash missile system completely thwarted drone and missile attacks from Pakistan, downing a Pakistani JF-17 fighter jet in Srinagar and a Fateh-1 missile in Punjab. Additionally, it neutralized DJI military drones and PL-15 missiles, demonstrating Akash's prowess as India's 'Iron Dome'.
A Threat to Pakistan
The Akash missile system has dismantled Pakistan's aerial attack strategies, securing Indian cities and military bases while nullifying Pakistan’s drone and missile tactics.
2. BrahMos Missile: The World's Fastest Cruise Missile
The BrahMos missile is a product of Indo-Russian collaboration and is recognized as the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile. Deployed by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, it is praised for its speed, accuracy, and destructive capability.
Key Features
Speed: Travelling at Mach 2.8 (nearly three times the speed of sound), with newer variants approaching hypersonic speeds.
Range: Its range has expanded from the initial 290 km to 900-1500 km.
Launch Platforms: Launchable from land, sea, submarine, and air, suitable for anti-ship and land-attack roles.
Precision: Known for radar evasion and precise targeting, making it nearly invincible against enemy air defense systems.
Recent Achievements
On May 11, 2025, as part of 'Operation Sindoor', BrahMos missiles were employed in a surgical strike on seven major Pakistani airbases. The strike caused extensive damage to Pakistan's air defenses in areas like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi within minutes, showcasing the missile's formidable power.
A Serious Threat to Pakistan
BrahMos's hypersonic speed and long-range present a grave threat to Pakistan, capable of striking Lahore (20-30 seconds), Islamabad (2-3 minutes), and Karachi (3-4 minutes) almost instantly. Its radar-evading abilities also challenge Pakistan's S-400 defense systems.
3. Sky Striker Suicide Drone: The Kamikaze Asset
The Sky Striker is an autonomous loitering munition (Kamikaze Drone), co-developed by India and Israel. Celebrated for its precision and 'launch and forget' technology.
Specifications
Loitering Capability: Capable of hovering over target areas for an extended period, identifying, and precisely striking targets.
Payload: Can carry explosive payloads of 5-10 kg, effective against small but crucial targets.
Autonomy: Tracks and destroys targets autonomously, reducing the operator's need for constant control.
Range and Speed: Effective in urban and complex terrains due to its range and speed.
Source: aajtak
Recent Engagements
On May 7, 2025, during 'Operation Sindoor', the Sky Striker drone decimated nine terror hubs in Pakistan, including madrassas of figures like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar. This attack dealt a severe blow to Pakistan's terror infrastructure and military capabilities, with the drone being dubbed a 'chokehold' on Pakistan by social media.
Major Threat to Pakistan
The Sky Striker's autonomy and precision make it lethal to terror bases and military sites in Pakistan, capable of evading radar and easily demolishing small targets like command centers or terrorist camps.
Strategic Importance of These Weapons
Indigenization and Self-reliance:
As part of India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, weapons like Akash, BrahMos, and Sky Striker reduce dependency on foreign imports, bolstering the Indian defense industry.
Strategic Edge Over Pakistan:
These weapons have invalidated Pakistan's air and ground strategies. Akash has thwarted aerial assaults, BrahMos has enhanced offensive capabilities, and Sky Striker has dismantled terror networks.
Economic Impact and Investment:
Companies behind the Akash missile, BEL and BDL, have seen substantial stock upticks, reflecting the strength of Indian defense stocks.
