Akash Missile Defense System (Photo-Getty Images)
The indigenous Akash missile defense system has played an important role in thwarting airstrikes by Pakistan. Akash killed drones and missiles coming from Pakistan in a moment. When Dr. Prahlad Rama Rao, who created the news of Akash missile defense system, started tears of his eyes. It was a emotional moment for Padma Shri Dr. Rama Rao, who was the project director of Akash project, that this air defense system created by his team is working in the country. He was happy that his system was chewing the enemy.
Dr. Rama Rao said about the Akash Missile Project that in 1983 I was made the project director of this program. This was a difficult project. When we were preparing this missile, we thought that it is very important to have 4 things in it, speed, agility, firepower and intelligence. Therefore, there was a lot of attention in this. Initially there was a lot of failures but Dr. Abdul Kalam encouraged a lot. They used to say do not worry, you will do it, we believed that we would definitely succeed one day.
Rama Rao said that after 15 years of struggle, we prepared a product which proved ourselves today. I am happy that this was a big success and this was proved. This was the first time that Akash was used in the war zone.
How does it work?
Dr. Rama Rao told that this is a Multi Target Handling- Medium Range Air Defense System. Akash is a medium range missile that can target several targets up to 40 kilometers simultaneously. It is designed for large aircraft and large drones. I believe that no matter how many targets, any drone or ship, our air defense systems can destroy everyone. We have created a great missile at a third price.
Production in Hyderabad, radar being built in Bangalore
Dr. Rama Rao told that today we have 200 industries who are only working as components and systems of Akash missile. Akash missile is being performed at the Hyderabad Center and radar is being built in Bangalore. Due to the ability of Akash missile, we have already exported it to two countries. Now it may happen and the country will also like to buy.
Correct direction and leadership needs
Akash is an example that the capacity of your indigenous defense industry is no less than anyone. We do not need to go out for any component. Everything is in your own country. We are not dependent on anyone. We are also creating employment for our people. The success of Akash missile in this conflict of India Pakistan shows that Indian people can do anything. The need is only of the right direction and leadership.