Introduction

India’s air defence capabilities have reached a new pinnacle of efficiency and precision, as recently demonstrated during heightened hostilities with Pakistan. The Indian Army showcased the exceptional performance of its early warning radar systems, indigenously developed Akashteer command system, and upgraded L-70 Air Defence Guns, claiming a 100% success rate in intercepting and neutralising enemy drones, UAVs, and aircraft.

Early Warning Radar System: The First Line of Defence

An Indian Army soldier, while speaking to ANI, emphasized the critical role played by the early warning radar of the air defence system. This radar is regarded as the most modern of its kind, equipped with long-range detection capabilities.

“It has the ability to search and detect enemy targets—drones, UAVs, or aircraft—from a long distance,” the soldier said.

The radar system detected incoming aerial threats and relayed the target data to the fire controller, which then guided the attached weapon system to engage and destroy the targets mid-air. This seamless integration enabled the Indian Army to eliminate threats before they could breach Indian airspace.

“Its success rate has been 100%, and it can be 101%, but it cannot be less than that,” the soldier added.

He further claimed that Pakistan faced heavy losses during the conflict due to this advanced radar system, which successfully jammed Pakistan’s air defence mechanisms, rendering them ineffective.

Akashteer: Indigenous Command and Control Excellence

In what has been described as a decisive force multiplier, the ‘Akashteer’ system emerged as a pivotal component during Operation Sindoor. An Indian Army Major confirmed that Akashteer played the most important role in India’s successful defence operations.

“Akashteer is a centrally automated command and control system integrated with all the air force and army radars,” the Major said.

During the operation, when a large number of enemy drones approached Indian positions, the Akashteer system automatically classified them as hostile. It then designated the nearest weapon systems to neutralise the threats, resulting in the effective destruction of all drones that attempted to enter Indian territory.

“It was 100% effective. Our mission was to prevent the enemy from accomplishing their objectives—and we succeeded,” the Major emphasized.

The officer also noted that Akashteer is entirely made in India, underscoring its indigenous roots and strategic importance in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant) defence vision.

L-70 Upgraded Air Defence Guns: Precision Strike at Its Best

The Indian Army also deployed upgraded L-70 Air Defence Guns, which demonstrated exceptional precision and range during the conflict.

An operator of the system explained that the L-70 gun is capable of tracking and locking targets from a significant distance. Once a threat enters the effective firing range, the system executes automated target destruction protocols.

“We destroyed all the drones. Its success rate is 100%,” he reported confidently.

He added that even in future scenarios involving enemy aircraft, drones, or missiles, India is prepared to give a befitting reply by intercepting threats mid-air using this powerful weapon system.

Indigenous Systems and Tactical Integration: A Strategic Gamechanger

Together, the early warning radar, Akashteer command system, and upgraded L-70 guns formed a multi-layered air defence network that successfully intercepted every missile and drone during Pakistan’s aerial assault on May 9–10.

This display of operational excellence affirms that India’s defence apparatus is no longer reactive but is proactively integrated, indigenous, and highly capable. Systems once confined to theoretical discussions in defence journals are now real-world force multipliers, reshaping South Asia's military balance.

Conclusion

India’s recent military performance during aerial hostilities is a testament to its evolving indigenous defence capabilities, strategic foresight, and effective integration of technology. From detecting to destroying aerial threats in real time, India’s air defence has proven itself on the battlefield.

As geopolitical tensions in the region remain high, the message is clear: India is not only prepared—but equipped—to respond with unmatched precision.