Question

Consider the following about AKASH’s deployment and utility:

1. It is deployed for ballistic missile interception at exo-atmospheric altitudes.

2. It is used for defending strategic locations from aerial threats such as drones and aircraft.

   Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• A. 1 only
• B. 2 only
• C. Both 1 and 2
• D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 2 only

• Correct Answer: Option B) 2 only

• AKASH is an advanced surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Here's an explanation of the statements:

• It is deployed for ballistic missile interception at exo-atmospheric altitudes.- This statement is incorrect. AKASH is not designed for exo-atmospheric interception. The AKASH missile system operates in the endo-atmospheric region (within Earth's atmosphere) and has an operational altitude of up to 18 km. For exo-atmospheric interception of ballistic missiles, India has developed other systems like the Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV) as part of its Ballistic Missile Defence program.

• It is used for defending strategic locations from aerial threats such as drones and aircraft. - This statement is correct. AKASH is primarily designed to protect important installations, bases, and strategic locations against various aerial threats including aircraft, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles. It has a range of approximately 25-30 km and can engage multiple targets simultaneously with its sophisticated tracking and guidance systems.