Akash-NG (Next Generation) is a more compact, longer-range, and more precise successor to the original Akash surface-to-air missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories. Having completed user evaluation trials in December 2025, Akash-NG is on track for induction into Indian armed forces service, expected around 2026-27.[1]
Akash-NG extends engagement range to approximately 70-80 km, roughly double or more the baseline Akash’s effective range, while also reducing the missile’s own physical size and weight to improve the number of rounds a launcher vehicle can carry and to simplify logistics and transport.[2]
The missile incorporates an indigenously developed radio-frequency (RF) seeker for active homing in the terminal engagement phase, a dual-pulse solid rocket motor that sustains missile energy through the intercept, and a modern multi-function radar and command-and-control architecture, together enabling faster reaction times and a genuine fire-and-forget engagement capability that the original Akash’s command-guidance system lacked.[2]
DRDO successfully completed user evaluation trials of Akash-NG in December 2025, with the missile system consistently meeting all mission objectives across a range of realistic operational scenarios, including near-boundary low-altitude engagements and long-range, high-altitude intercepts, demonstrating high accuracy, reliability, and responsiveness against a variety of simulated aerial threats.[3]
As part of the final phase of trials ahead of induction, Akash-NG has undergone high-altitude testing intended specifically to validate performance in the demanding conditions found along India’s Himalayan borders, where thinner air and extreme cold place additional stress on missile propulsion and guidance systems compared to plains-based deployment.[4]
With user evaluation trials complete, officials have indicated Akash-NG could be inducted into service around 2026-27, positioning it to progressively supplement or replace the original Akash across Indian Air Force and Army air-defence units, extending India’s layered, indigenous surface-to-air missile coverage with a more capable, longer-range, and more precise system.[1]
Akash-NG represents the next step in India’s indigenous medium-range air defence programme, building directly on the original Akash’s proven combat performance during Operation Sindoor in May 2025 while addressing that system’s range and guidance-precision limitations, and reinforcing the layered air-defence architecture envisioned under the broader Mission Sudarshan Chakra initiative.[1]
| Type | Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (Next Generation) |
| Country | India |
| Manufacturer | DRDO (DRDL) |
| Range | ~70-80 km |
| Guidance | Indigenous RF seeker, active homing (fire-and-forget) |
| Propulsion | Dual-pulse solid rocket motor |
| Status | User trials completed (Dec 2025); induction expected 2026-27 |
| Operator (planned) | Indian Air Force / Army |