India’s Air Defence Shield

India’s Air Defence Shield : India's air defense strategy is centered around the  Integrated Air Command and Control System( IACCS), which integrates data from various assets to respond swiftly to aerial threats.

o It played a crucial role in Operation Sindoor, enhancing military effectiveness.

• About IACCS : Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

o An automated command and control system that connects a range of air defence systems including: Ground-based radar, Airborne sensors, Civilian radar, Communication nodes and Air Force control centres.

o Provides a consolidated real-time feed, enhancing situational awareness for military commanders.

o Centralized control and decentralized execution allow for rapid decisions and effective response to aerial threats, improving reaction time.

o Manage overlapping radar and radio coverage to ensure effective airspace management.

o Works within a multilayered defence grid, including counter-drone systems and MANPADS (Man-Portable Air Defence Systems), and progressing to advanced surface-to-air missiles at various ranges.

• Role of Akashteer: The Indian Army has a similar air defence control system named Akashteer, developed by BEL.

o Focuses on low-level airspace monitoring and connects air defence weapon systems on the ground.

o It is set to integrate with IACCS to ensure better coordination between Army and Air Force air defence operations.