New Delhi: Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh recently confirmed the India Turkmenistan Akash missile deal, making Turkmenistan one of the latest foreign operators of the indigenous missile system.
The development comes as India continues to increase defence exports and promote locally developed military technology in international markets.
What Is The Akash Air Defence Missile System
The Akash Air Defence Missile System was developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is designed to protect important military and strategic assets from aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles.
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What are the Features Of Akash
- Surface-to-air missile system
- Interception range of around 30 km
- Capable of engaging multiple targets
- Mobile platform for quick deployment
- Effective against fast-moving aerial threats
- Designed for all-weather operations
The system has already been inducted into the Indian Armed Forces and has attracted interest from several countries due to its performance and cost-effectiveness.
Turkmenistan’s Diverse Air Defence Network
Turkmenistan has traditionally relied on Soviet-era military equipment. However, in recent years, the country has diversified its defence inventory by purchasing advanced systems from China and other countries. The country’s existing air defence network includes Chinese-origin systems such as:
- FM-90 short-range air defence system
- FD-2000 long-range air defence system
- FK-2000 mobile gun-missile air defence system
This combination has created a layered defence network capable of handling different types of aerial threats.
Why Akash Fits Into This Network
Defence experts believe the Akash system fills an important medium-range air defence role. While systems such as the FD-2000 are designed for long-range interception and the FM-90 focuses on short-range protection, Akash provides an additional defensive layer capable of engaging multiple airborne targets at medium range. This improves the overall effectiveness of Turkmenistan’s air defence architecture.
Strategic Importance of India Turkmenistan Akash Missile Deal For India
Armenia was the first foreign customer of the Akash system. With exports now confirmed to Turkmenistan and Tajikistan, India has expanded the missile’s international footprint significantly.
The export also highlights India’s growing reputation as a supplier of advanced defence equipment. According to government data, India’s defence exports reached record levels in recent years, with indigenous systems playing a major role.
Growing Influence In Central Asia
Central Asia has historically been influenced by Russian military equipment and, more recently, Chinese defence products. The addition of Indian-made Akash systems demonstrates that countries in the region are increasingly considering India as a reliable defence partner.
FAQs
Akash is an Indian-developed surface-to-air missile system designed to intercept aircraft, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles. It was developed by DRDO and is used by the Indian Armed Forces.
According to official statements, Armenia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan have acquired the Akash Air Defence Missile System.
The export strengthens India’s defence presence in Central Asia, expands Akash’s international footprint, and highlights India’s growing role as a defence exporter.
