Context:
India’s Air Defence System (ADS) successfully thwarted attacks on India’s Western Border
India’s Air Defence System (ADS):
- ADS functions as an Integrated Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Grid.
- It deploys multiple Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) systems for aerial threat interception.
- Ensures layered air defence against a variety of threats including drones, aircraft, and missiles.
- Key Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) Systems in India’s ADS – S-400 Triumf, Barak 8 and Akash Weapon System
S-400 Triumf (Acquired from Russia):
- Known as Sudarshan Chakra in India.
- Among the most advanced long-range SAM systems globally.
- Features command-and-control system, phased array radars, and electronic warfare countermeasures.
- Offers 360-degree radar and missile coverage.
- Multi-missile compatibility, enabling layered defence.
- Capable of tracking and engaging multiple targets simultaneously.
- Tracking range: Up to 600 km.
- Altitude coverage: 30 meters to 30 km (effective against low-altitude drones as well as high-altitude aircraft and missiles).
Barak 8 (Jointly developed by India & Israel):
- A Medium- to Long-Range SAM (MR SAM or LR SAM) system.
- Equipped with Mach 2 speed for swift target interception.
- Can engage multiple targets at the same time.
- Available in both maritime and land-based variants.
- Operational range: Up to 100 km.
Akash Weapon System (Indigenously Built):
- A Short-Range SAM developed within India.
- Features advanced Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM).
- Capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously in Group Mode or Autonomous Mode.
- High immunity against active and passive jamming.
- Fully automated system, ensuring quick response time from detection to kill.
- Range: 4.5 km to 25 km.
- Guidance system: Command guidance.
Source: TOI
Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements:
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.
2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2023 Prelims]
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (d)