The Indian Army is set to acquire six AK-630 air defense gun systems in an emergency purchase to bolster the protection of population centers and religious sites near the border with Pakistan. This procurement is part of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a key national security initiative, and takes lessons from Operation Sindoor, during which Pakistani forces targeted civilians and religious structures.
Mission Sudarshan Chakra, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Independence Day in 2025, aims to create a comprehensive, multi-layered, indigenous security shield by 2035. This initiative integrates advanced surveillance, cybersecurity, and air defense systems to protect vital national assets and aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative to promote domestic defense manufacturing.
The AK-630 is a 30mm multi-barrel, mobile air defense gun system known for its high rate of fire. It is designed to counter threats from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), rockets, artillery shells, and mortars (URAM). The system will be mounted on a trailer and towed by a high-mobility vehicle for rapid deployment.
According to defense officials, the AK-630 has an effective range of approximately 4 kilometers and a cyclic rate of fire of up to 3,000 rounds per minute. It features an all-weather electro-optical fire control system for accurate detection and engagement of low-flying aerial threats.
The acquisition of the AK-630 systems follows internal trials conducted by the Indian Army in May, where the system reportedly performed proficiently in neutralizing practice aerial targets. The trials assessed the system's reaction speed, accuracy, and dependability under simulated combat conditions, and some areas were identified for enhancement.
Operation Sindoor, launched in response to attacks on civilians and religious sites, highlighted the need for enhanced air defense capabilities. During this operation, the Indian Army's air defense units played a crucial role in neutralizing aerial threats from Pakistani drones and aircraft. The AK-630 systems are expected to significantly strengthen the existing air defense shield, complementing systems like the L-70 guns, ZU-23-2B, upgraded Schilka systems, and Akash surface-to-air missiles.
The AK-630 was originally developed in the Soviet Union as a naval close-in weapon system (CIWS). It has since been adapted for ground-based deployment and integrated into a mobile gun system. The system's high firing rate and ability to engage a variety of targets make it a valuable asset for protecting critical infrastructure and population centers. The AK-630M integrated Mobile Gun System (MGS) is undergoing tougher field trials after initial success. The Indian Army aims to ensure the system meets the stringent demands of modern warfare, where speed, accuracy, and adaptability are paramount.
