Akashteer Air Defence System Makes Airspace ‘Hell’ for Pakistan’s Drones
NEW DELHI: India’s AI-powered and fully automated air defense system, Akashteer, developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), has demonstrated its effectiveness in active conflict scenarios. The indigenous system played a crucial role in neutralizing multiple aerial threats during recent escalations with Pakistan, particularly amid a surge of drone and missile attacks.
Following India’s bold Operation Sindoor on May 7, which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Pakistan attempted to retaliate using drone swarms, missiles, micro UAVs, and loitering munitions. However, the Akashteer system stood firm, intercepting and destroying incoming threats before they could breach Indian airspace, effectively turning the skies into “hell for Pakistan’s air ventures.”
BEL confirmed in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) that Akashteer exceeded expectations. “The system performed beyond users’ expectations, providing robust air defense to India during the current conflict,” the defense public sector unit noted.
The system enhances battlefield situational awareness by offering a unified and real-time air picture to the lowest levels of India’s Air Defense (AD) units. It enables swift, dynamic engagement decisions while reducing the risk of friendly fire. The AI-integrated network links surveillance assets, radar systems, and command centers to create a seamless operational structure for controlling ground-based air defense weapons.
Developed under a ₹1,982 crore contract signed in March 2023, Akashteer equips frontline units with advanced threat analysis and engagement capabilities. This strengthens India’s operational readiness and aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission for self-reliance in defense technology.
Alongside Akashteer, the Akash surface-to-air missile system—also indigenously developed—played a significant role in defending Indian assets from Pakistani aerial threats, contributing to zero casualties and minimal material damage.
Akashteer’s success marks a significant milestone in India’s defense preparedness, showcasing the effectiveness of indigenous technology in modern warfare.
