India’s ‘Akashteer’ Air Defence System Proves Effective In Thwarting Pakistani Drone Threats

India’s AI-powered and fully automated air defence system, ‘Akashteer’, has emerged as a key asset in neutralising aerial threats from Pakistan, effectively intercepting hostile drones as soon as they entered Indian airspace.

Developed and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the indigenously designed ‘Akashteer’ system, tested in real-time conflict conditions during the recent escalation between India and Pakistan.

BEL confirmed that the system successfully intercepted a range of aerial threats, including drones, missiles, micro UAVs, and loitering munitions.

Highlighting its battlefield performance, BEL stated on Wednesday that ‘Akashteer’ significantly strengthened India’s air defence posture during the current conflict.

The system, it noted, went beyond expectations in providing reliable protection for the Indian armed forces.

Taking to X, the company posted, “BEL is proud to announce that our in-house designed & manufactured Air Defence System, Akashteer, has proved its mettle in the war-field. Ground-based Defence Systems integrated with Akashteer made it hell for Pakistan’s air adventures.”

It further added, “The system performed beyond users’ expectations, providing robust Air Defence to India during the current conflict. Akashteer ensures a seamless & unified air situation picture accessible to the lowest operational units of Army AD, enhancing situational awareness across the force.”

Drone Shield Activated: ‘Akashteer’ Proves Vital In Border Defence

‘Akashteer’, developed under a contract worth Rs 1,982 crore, signed in March 2023.

It integrates surveillance equipment, radar systems, and command units into a single, connected network, providing real-time airspace awareness and enabling quick, coordinated responses to aerial threats.

The system allows Indian Army air defence units to effectively monitor low-level airspace in operational zones and control ground-based air defence weapons with precision.

During the conflict that followed India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, ‘Akashteer’ played a crucial role by neutralising incoming drones and missiles.

Its deployment resulted in zero casualties and minimal damage to Indian infrastructure.

BEL also noted that the system has enhanced decision-making for frontline units, improving engagement accuracy and reducing the risk of friendly-fire incidents.

In line with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission, ‘Akashteer’ is a reflection of India’s growing capability in indigenous defence manufacturing.

Alongside ‘Akashteer’, the Akash surface-to-air missile system—also developed locally—was instrumental in intercepting multiple Pakistani drone incursions during the recent conflict.

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