Operation Sindoor and Air Defence Systems
The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased its Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) during Operation Sindoor, emphasizing its role in creating a defensive shield against aerial threats from Pakistan.
The IAF's IACCS
- Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), IACCS integrates data from various air defence assets including ground-based radar, airborne sensors, and command centres.
- It provides real-time updates and a comprehensive situational awareness enabling military commanders to quickly identify and respond to threats.
- Effectively manages airspace through overlapping radar and radio data, reducing redundancy.
The Army's Akashteer
- A similar system to IACCS, Akashteer links the Indian Army's air defence units and was developed by BEL.
- A Rs 1,982 crore contract was signed in March 2023 for its development.
- Currently being integrated with IACCS to enhance coordination between Army and Air Force operations.
Multilayered Air Defence Umbrella
- The Indian military deploys a multi-layered air defence system that includes:
- First Layer: Counter-drone systems and MANPADS (Man-Portable Air Defence Systems).
- Second and Third Layers: Point air defence, short-range and medium-range surface-to-air missiles.
- Fourth Layer: Long-range surface-to-air missiles.
- Description of the role of various modern radars such as AWACS and AEW&C in threat detection and interception.
IACCS in Future
The IAF has improved defences across sensitive bases by integrating radars and Surface to Air Guided Weapon systems into the IACCS network. Future developments will incorporate artificial intelligence for threat analysis, ensuring a coordinated response from all air defence platforms.
