New Delhi: India’s Akash missile production is expected to continue well beyond 2030 as Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) shift their focus to advanced versions of the indigenous air defence system. Strong domestic orders, upcoming next-generation variants, and growing export opportunities are expected to keep production lines active for many years, according to information available from official government and defence sources.
Strong Demand Keeps Akash Programme Active
Reports suggesting that Akash missile production is coming to an end are not supported by current official developments. Instead, India is gradually moving from the original Akash system to improved versions such as Akash Prime and the Akash-NG (New Generation). These upgraded systems offer better accuracy, modern guidance technology and improved performance against new aerial threats.
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Akash Missile Production: ₹8,161 Crore Army Order Supports Long-Term Production
A major reason for continued manufacturing is the Indian Army’s order for the 3rd and 4th Akash Regiments. In March 2023, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth over ₹8,160 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited for the improved Akash Weapon System. The order includes missiles, launchers, support equipment, vehicles and infrastructure, ensuring steady production for the coming years. The order also pushed BDL’s order book above ₹24,000 crore, giving the company a strong production pipeline.
Akash Missile Production: Exports Create New Growth Opportunities
India is also expanding the Akash missile programme through defence exports. The Akash Weapon System has already been exported to Armenia, making it one of India’s major indigenous missile export programmes. DRDO has also confirmed that the system is being offered to other friendly foreign countries, while BEL has supported export activities and training. Growing international interest could further increase production in the coming years.
Akash Missile Production: Advanced Akash Variants to Lead the Future
The future of the programme lies in its upgraded missile systems. Akash Prime uses an indigenous active RF seeker to improve accuracy and has already reached the First of Production Model (FoPM) stage for system integration. Meanwhile, Akash-NG is being developed with several advanced features, including:
- Indigenous active RF seeker
- Dual-pulse solid rocket motor
- Canister-based launcher
- Longer engagement range
- Improved mobility and faster deployment
These upgrades are designed to meet the changing requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.
DRDO Continues to Modernise the Akash Family
According to DRDO, the Akash Weapon System remains one of India’s key indigenous air defence platforms. The missile system is already operational with both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. New variants are being developed to improve survivability, accuracy and effectiveness against modern aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, drones and cruise missiles.
Read also: India’s Akash-NG Missile Program Advances with Induction of MAK Controls’ Indigenous Launcher
