"Tears of Pride": Akash Missile System Creator Dr. Rama Rao on Its Role in Defending India from Pakistan's Attacks

As the indigenous Akash missile defense system successfully intercepted and destroyed Pakistani drones and missiles during recent hostilities, its chief architect, Padmashree Dr. Prahlad Rama Rao, was overwhelmed with emotion. Watching his creation protect the country in real-time was a moment of profound pride and validation for the scientist who led the project through its toughest phases.

A Vision Born in 1983

Recalling the origins of the Akash missile, Dr. Rama Rao shared that he was appointed Project Director in 1983, when the dream of an indigenous air defense system was still distant. The objective was clear: the missile must excel in speed, agility, lethality, and intelligence. Despite numerous failures in the initial stages, it was the encouragement from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam that kept the team going. “He would always say, ‘Don’t worry, you will do it,’” Rama Rao recalled.

15 Years of Struggle, a Moment of Glory

After 15 years of relentless effort, the Akash system was developed—a system that has now proven its worth in live combat for the first time. “I’m happy that the missile has now been used in a war zone and has delivered success,” Rama Rao said with visible pride.

How the Akash Missile Works

Dr. Rama Rao explained that Akash is a medium-range, multi-target air defense system capable of neutralizing multiple aerial threats—aircraft, large drones, or even missiles—within a 40-kilometer radius. Built at one-third the cost of imported alternatives, Akash proves that indigenous solutions can be both effective and economical.

A Nation-Built Weapon

• 200 Indian industries are currently involved in producing components for the Akash missile.
• Missile assembly is carried out in Hyderabad, while its radars are manufactured in Bangalore.
• Akash has already been exported to two countries, and demand is rising following its recent performance.

"We Don’t Need to Depend on Anyone"

Calling Akash a symbol of self-reliance, Dr. Rama Rao emphasized, “We don’t need to go abroad for any component. Everything is made in our own country.” The system not only boosts India’s defense but also creates employment opportunities across the manufacturing chain.

A Message for the Nation

In closing, Dr. Rama Rao highlighted that Akash’s success is proof that Indians can achieve anything with the right direction and leadership. “The capability of our indigenous defense industry is second to none,” he said, underlining the power of local innovation.