Why in News? 

India successfully conducted a high-altitude test of the Akash Prime missile system in Ladakh, destroying two high-speed aerial targets. 

About Akash Prime 

• The Akash Prime is an advanced version of the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM), developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in partnership with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).  
• Designed specifically for high-altitude, low-oxygen conditions, it strengthens India’s capability to protect its mountainous border areas. 

Akash Prime Missile 

Key Features 

• Altitude: Tested at 15,000 ft. 
• Targeting: Indigenous active radar seeker for precision. 
• Speed & Range: Mach 2.5, strike range 30 km. 
• All-Weather: Works in extreme cold & thin air. 
• Accuracy: 88% single-shot, 98.5% dual-salvo. 

Significance 

• Boosts defence along LAC (Ladakh & Sikkim). 
• Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat by being fully indigenous. 
• Enhances India’s reputation in the global defence market.