The Evolution of Air Force Akash Launcher, Air Force Akash Launcher, DRDO, Tata Advanced Systems, Air Defence Missile, Akash SAM System

The AAL is a reliable system designed to operate in all weather conditions and at all hours, day or night. It comprises a fully automated and self-powered electromechanical launch system mounted on a heavy 8×8 military vehicle.

This vehicle is designed to withstand harsh environments and difficult terrain, making the AAL a popular choice for missile launch platforms due to its fast start-up and shutdown times.

Akash Air Force Launcher: Key Features

* Autonomous: It generates its own energy, so it does not need an external power source. In the case of the AAL, this could involve having an on-board generator or a battery system that provides electricity to its mechanical and electronic components, allowing it to operate autonomously in various environments.

* Fully automated: the system can perform its tasks without human intervention. For the AAL, this would involve:

– Automatic launch: the system can detect targets and launch missiles by itself, using pre-programmed instructions and sensors

– Self-diagnosis: it can monitor its own systems and identify problems, alerting operators only if maintenance is required

– Autonomous movement: The vehicle can navigate to its launch position without manual driving, using GPS and other technologies. Overall, this allows the AAL to operate efficiently and quickly in various situations, improving its efficiency in operations.

* Electromechanical Launch System: This system uses electrical and mechanical components to launch missiles. Here's how it works:

– Electrical components: These include the motors, sensors, and control systems that provide the power and automation needed for launch. They handle tasks such as aiming and initiating the launch

– Mechanical components: These are the physical parts, such as rails and launch mechanisms, that physically hold and propel the missile during launch.

Together, these components enable the system to launch missiles accurately and efficiently, using electrical controls to operate the mechanical parts.

* 8×8 vehicle: This term describes a vehicle with eight wheels, all of which can be driven and steered. This design improves traction, stability, and maneuverability, especially on rough or uneven terrain, allowing it to handle difficult conditions more effectively than vehicles with fewer wheels.

The firing unit and its components

A firing unit consists of four Advanced Artillery Launchers (AALs), as well as a Troop Control Center (TCC), a Troop Level Radar (TLR), and support vehicles, such as the Transporter-Loader Vehicle (TLV) and the Troop Equipment Maintenance Vehicle (TEMV).

The AALs are tasked with launching artillery shells. They are equipped with a reliable communications system that includes two types of connections to the TCC: a wireless radio frequency (RF) link, which allows for wireless communication, and a physical wired link, which provides an additional level of reliability.

The TCC serves as the command center, coordinating operations and making tactical decisions. The TLR is a radar system that helps detect and track targets, improving the accuracy of artillery fire. The TLV is used for transporting and loading artillery, while the TEMV manages equipment maintenance and repairs. Together, these elements improve the overall effectiveness and efficiency of artillery operations.

Akash SAM System: Advanced Capabilities

Akash is an Indian-made surface-to-air missile (SAM) system to protect against air attacks. Developed by the DRDO and produced by the BDL, it is a short-range missile system that can defend important areas against enemy aircraft.

Akash is often compared to Israel's Iron Dome air defense system. The DRDO announced that India is the first country to develop a system capable of simultaneously targeting and engaging four airborne threats up to 25 kilometers away using a single command-guided firing unit.

Key Features of Akash SAM System

* The Akash missile system can engage multiple targets at the same time, in group and autonomous mode

* It is equipped with electronic countermeasures (ECCM) to overcome enemy jamming and evasion tactics

* The entire Akash system is mounted on mobile platforms, allowing for rapid transportation and improved agility

* Its mobility increases survivability by moving after firing missiles to avoid enemy counterattacks

* The Akash system can intercept drones, smaller projectiles, helicopters and aircraft, similar to Israel's Iron Dome

* Designed primarily for defense against larger airborne threats, such as aircraft, rather than smaller rockets

* Capable of hitting targets between 4.5km and 25km with an altitude range of 100 meters to 20km

* The missile is 5,870 mm long, 350 mm in diameter and weighs 710 kg, with fast response time and adaptability to various air defense scenarios

The author of this article is a defence, aerospace and policy analyst based in Bengaluru.