India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), under Dr. Samir V. Kamat, is enhancing air defense capabilities with user trials of the Akash Next Generation (Akash-NG) surface-to-air missile system and developing a longer-range variant. The Akash-NG is capable of engaging targets up to 80 km, surpassing the officially reported range of 30 km. Its advanced dual-pulse solid rocket motor significantly boosts performance against agile threats. The anticipated longer-range variant could exceed 100 km, aligning with India’s comprehensive air defense strategy, including the S-400 and Project Kusha, showcasing India’s commitment to a robust, indigenous defense ecosystem capable of countering diverse aerial threats.