India’s Air Defence Systems: Akash, Akashteer, IACCS and Drones
Why in the news
A short fact sheet listed the home-built systems and technologies India relied on, from air defence missiles to strike drones.
Key facts
- Akash SAM: a short-range surface-to-air missile; found superior to China’s HQ-9.
- Akashteer: air defence control and automation system made by BEL, fielded in 2024.
- IACCS: the Integrated Air Command and Control System of the IAF.
- Drones and guided munitions: indigenous, long-range, used in precision offensive strikes.
System-wise summary
| System | Type | Role | Linked body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akash SAM | Surface-to-air missile | Short-range air defence | – |
| Akashteer | Control and automation | Air defence coordination | BEL |
| IACCS | Command and control network | Air command and control | IAF |
| Drones and munitions | Unmanned and guided weapons | Precision strikes | Indigenous |
Exam angle
- Akashteer was developed by BEL and fielded in 2024.
- Akash is a short-range SAM; Chinese counterpart named is the HQ-9.
- IACCS belongs to the Indian Air Force.