Pune: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) chairman, Samir V Kamat, has lauded the instrumental role of India’s BrahMos missiles and Akashteer defence systems during Operation Sindoor, which was conducted in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

“When it comes to offensive weapons, BrahMos was the primary weapon used, which was launched from our Sukhoi Mark 1 platform. When it comes to defensive weapon systems, the Akashteer system, the anti-drone system and the MRSAM were used,” said the DRDO chairman during a press interaction in Pune.

Kamat explained, "All the sensors were networked using the Akashteer, which helped in identifying the threats coming towards us and then deploying the right kind of weapon to neutralise those threats. Advanced early warning and control aircraft were also used for advanced surveillance. This is broadly what I can say without getting into too much.”

He further expressed pride in India's strengthening defence sector, stating, "It's indeed a proud moment for all of us. It's a reflection of the strength of our R&D and production in the defence domain. I'm sure going ahead, this number will keep increasing."

India’s annual defence production has reached a record high of Rs 1,50,590 crore for FY 2024-25, an 18 per cent growth over the previous fiscal. Kamat credited this milestone to the “Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives” of the PM Modi-led government.

Akashteer, described as India’s “fully indigenous, automated Air Defence Control and Reporting System,” was pivotal, intercepting and neutralising inbound threats. The BrahMos missile system, meanwhile, is highlighted as a symbol of “Cruise Missile Triad that enables precision attacks against land and sea targets” and demonstrates “Indo-Russian collaboration” in defence technology.

Operation Sindoor, executed on May 7, served as India’s decisive response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. The DRDO’s technological advancements and successful deployment during this operation underscore the growing prowess of India's defence capabilities.

With inputs from ANI