India achieves significant milestone by successful trial of Akash Prime at high-altitude

(Forelines) – India reached a major milestone on July 16, 2025, when Akash Prime, the Indian Army’s updated version of the Akash Weapon System, successfully destroyed two Aerial High Speed Unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh, Indian Defence Ministry said in statement.

The weapon system features the most recent improvements, such as an indigenously built radio frequency seeker, and is tailored to function at altitudes exceeding 4,500 meters. The benefit of the ecosystem developed for the domestic weapon system is demonstrated by the numerous improvements made to increase operational effectiveness based on user operational feedback.

The domestically built and developed Akash Prime Weapon System has been successfully validated by Army Air Defence, DRDO, Defence PSUs including Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, and other Industry Partners. The trials, which were conducted as part of the First of Production Model fire testing, would improve the country’s high-altitude frontiers’ air defense capabilities and allow for prompt induction.

“This achievement carries added significance as it follows the exceptional performance of India’s indigenously developed air defence systems during Operation Sindoor. For the country’s missile development programs, which are currently receiving more attention in the international defense market, it represents a significant advancement,” India’s Defence Ministry said.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has commended the Indian Army, DRDO, and the industry for this remarkable achievement. According to him, the achievement significantly improved India’s Air Defense capabilities, especially in terms of fulfilling high-altitude operating needs. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of the DRDO and Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D, commended the teams involved in the successful test and said the missile has satisfied the nation’s vital high-altitude air defense needs.