On the night of May 8-9, Pakistan launched a series of drone and missile strikes aimed at 26 locations along India’s western border. The very next day, Pakistani drones breached Indian airspace once again. But India’s air defence systems, particularly the Akashteer, swiftly neutralised these threats, preventing any significant damage.

About Akashteer

Akashteer is India’s advanced, AI-powered air defence system. Developed by the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Akashteer was designed to tackle modern aerial threats.The system effectively stopped Pakistan’s incoming drones, missiles, micro UAVs, and loitering munitions, keeping them from entering Indian airspace.

India’s powerful air defence capabilities, led by Akashteer, acted like an “Iron Dome,” showcasing the strength of its technological defences and ensuring the safety of its skies. Akashteer is likely the first fully operational AI-powered air defence system built entirely with Indian components, without relying on foreign parts or satellites. It outperformed Pakistan's air defence systems, like the HQ-9 and HQ-16, which failed to detect and stop Indian missiles in time, leading to heavy losses for Pakistan.

According to DD News, Akashteer successfully intercepted targets in real time and was involved in drone warfare. The system provides a real-time air picture to all teams involved (control rooms, radars, and air defence guns), allowing them to work together more effectively. It’s designed to automatically detect, track, and engage enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles, using various radar systems, sensors, and communication technologies in one unified system.

How it works

Akashteer is an advanced air defence system that quickly processes data from various sources to make real-time decisions on engaging targets. It operates as part of a larger C4ISR framework, coordinating with systems like ISRO satellites and NAVIC GPS.

Unlike traditional systems that rely on radars and human control, Akashteer uses AI, stealth tracking, and satellite surveillance to monitor low-level airspace and control weapons more efficiently. It can intercept drones without being detected, making it faster and smarter than other systems.

Mobile and autonomous, Akashteer can operate in challenging environments, reducing friendly fire risks and ensuring the safety of friendly aircraft. It integrates multiple sensors, including 3D radars and the Akash weapon system, for effective defence.