Akash Missile Successfully Tested in Ripple Mode Against Multiple Targets

Akash surface-to-air missile ripple fire test on May 28, 2014

The DRDO developed Akash surface-to-air missile was successfully tested in ripple mode and against multiple targets at the extreme edge of the missile's engagement envelope.

Three Akash missiles were launched from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Balasore on two targets being towed by Lakshya PTA at "low altitude far boundary".

Two of the missiles were launched on the same target in ripple mode. The missiles successfully intercepted the fast moving and maneuvering small RCS targets.

Akash Project Director G. Chandramouli told The Hindu that the first missile climbed to an altitude of 700-m and then slammed down on its target 20-km from the test range.

IAF personnel then launched two missiles in ripple mode with 5 sec interval on a second target.

"The first missile destroyed the target. The second homed in on the destroyed parts, falling down," said Mr. Chandramouli.

The DRDO released video above of the ripple test shows the first missile warhead detonating at 19-sec and a large chunk of debris falling to the ground. The second missile warhead detonates at 23-sec well above the altitude of the first detonation.

IDP Sentinel members can read about the Akash missile at the link below.

Akash Missile (IDP Sentinel)