In light of ongoing border tensions and China's increasing military capabilities, India is actively modernizing its armed forces and testing new weapon systems. These efforts aim to strengthen its defense capabilities, particularly in high-altitude areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Akash Prime Missile System

The Indian Army is set to induct two regiments of the Akash Prime surface-to-air missile system, designed for air defense in high-altitude areas along the China border. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) designed the Akash Prime, and Bharat Dynamics produces it. During trials in Ladakh, the Akash Prime missiles successfully destroyed two high-speed unmanned aerial targets at an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet. Rajnath Singh, the Union Defence Minister, hailed the tests as a "significant milestone and boost" for India's air defense capabilities, especially for high-altitude operational needs.

The Akash Prime is an upgraded version of the Akash missile and is customized for deployment in areas above 4,500 meters. It includes modified ground systems and radars, as well as new radio frequency seekers. The system has a 360° engagement capability and a reduced footprint. The Akash and Akash Prime can intercept hostile aircraft, helicopters, and drones at a range of 25 km. The Army Air Defence (AAD) is raising two regiments of the Akash Prime system, in addition to its existing two Akash regiments, under a contract signed in March 2023. The Indian Air Force (IAF) already has 15 Akash squadrons.

Laser-Based Anti-Drone Systems

The Indian Army is also acquiring laser-based anti-drone systems to counter the growing drone threat, especially along the Pakistan and China borders. These systems, developed by the DRDO, are equipped with a 2-kilowatt laser beam that can destroy enemy drones at a range of 800 to 1,000 meters. The Army has already inducted seven Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems. India is also developing a more powerful 30-kilowatt laser-based counter-drone system that can take down larger drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles.

Other Modernization Efforts

In addition to air defense systems, the Indian Army is pursuing a broader modernization roadmap that includes hypersonic weapons, cyber capabilities, and other advanced systems. This plan aligns with India's self-reliance strategy, as the country aims to shift military equipment manufacturing domestically. The Army is also looking at extending the range of Pinaka rockets and plans to induct more Pinaka regiments. User trials of the Pralay tactical ballistic missile and Nirbhay cruise missiles will commence soon. The Indian Army is developing new weapons such as long-range loiter ammunition, smart shells, area denial rocket systems, and hypersonic missiles in partnership with the DRDO, academic institutions, and industry.

Strategic Implications

These weapons systems and modernization efforts are strategically significant for several reasons:

• Border Defense: The Akash Prime missile system is specifically designed for high-altitude warfare, making it suitable for deployment in areas like the Ladakh sector along the India-China border.
• Rapid Response: The mobility of systems like Akash Prime makes them ideal for rapid response in case of aerial intrusions or wartime threats.
• Deterrence: These systems act as a strong deterrent against hostile air forces, especially in regions where ground-based radar coverage is difficult.
• Countering China's Build Up: China has been strengthening its military presence along the LAC since 2020, including deploying troops, artillery, and air defense units. India's modernization efforts are a response to this build-up.
• Make in India Initiative: The push for indigenous defense manufacturing aligns with the "Make in India" program, aimed at strengthening the country's defense production capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.