The indigenously developed Akash surface-to-air missile system played a pivotal role in foiling Pakistani drone attacks along the Line of Control (LoC) and western border during a wave of hostile activity on the nights of May 7–9, according to top defence officials.
In a decisive response to Pakistani aggression, the Indian Army and Air Force deployed the Akash missile system across multiple sectors bordering Pakistan. Officials confirmed that the “Made in India” Akash system was instrumental in neutralising incoming drones targeting Indian military assets.
“The Akash surface-to-air missile air defence system has been effectively used by the Indian armed forces in foiling Pakistani attacks. Both the Indian Army and Air Force have deployed the system along the Pakistan border,” said senior defence officials.
The Akash missile system is a medium-range, surface-to-air platform designed to protect vulnerable locations from a range of aerial threats. It can simultaneously engage multiple targets from any direction, using command guidance and a phased array radar for precision targeting. Its real-time data processing, cross-country mobility, and scalable architecture make it ideal for both mobile and fixed defence roles.
During the intervening night of May 8 and May 9, the Indian Army stated it had successfully repelled and responded to drone and ceasefire violations launched by Pakistani forces.
“Pakistan Armed Forces launched multiple attacks using drones and other munitions along the entire Western Border and LoC. The attacks were effectively repulsed and met with a befitting reply. The Indian Army remains committed to safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation,” the Army stated.
Earlier, over 50 Pakistani drones were shot down in what was described as a large-scale counter-drone operation across the LoC and International Borders (IB). Indian retaliation under Operation Sindoor also included neutralisation of an air defence system in Lahore, targeting Pakistani radar and missile infrastructure.
The successful use of Akash in active conflict underscores India’s growing technological self-reliance and defensive preparedness in responding to hostile incursions from across the border.
