Why in the news?

  • India pitches for supply of Akash missile system to Brazil as Indian Defence Minister holds talks with Brazilian Vice-President.

Akash Missile System

  • What is it?: Akash is a medium-range, surface-to-air missile defense system.
  • Developed by: DRDO
  • Features:
    • Range: Target aircraft up to 30 km away, at altitudes up to 18,000 m.
    • Detection: It consists of a Rohini radar that detects incoming aircraft at ranges out to 120 km and relays the information to a command post.
    • Capacity: It can “neutralize aerial targets like fighter jets, cruise missiles, and air-to-surface missiles” as well as ballistic missiles.