Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS)

Why in News ?   The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased its Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) during a briefing on Operation Sindoor, demonstrating its effectiveness in neutralizing aerial threats from Pakistan during a recent military conflict. This highlights India’s robust air defense infrastructure.

Relevance :  UPSC Pre & Mains

Prelims: IACCS/) Akashteer System

Mains : GS Paper III: Security/Science & Tech.

Key Points:

Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS):

1. • Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

1. • Centralized and automated system integrating data from air defense assets like ground-based radar, airborne sensors, civilian radar, and communication nodes.
   • Provides real-time situational awareness to commanders, enabling early threat identification and response.
   • Reduces redundancy with overlapping radar and radio data coverage, facilitating better airspace management.

 Indian Army’s Akashteer System:

1. • Similar to IACCS, Akashteer monitors low-level airspace and controls ground-based air defense systems.
   • Contracted for development with BEL in March 2023 at Rs 1,982 crore.
   • Currently operates on a smaller scale and is being integrated with IACCS for coordinated operations between the Army and Air Force.

Multi-Layered Air Defense System:

• Point Defense: Low-level air defense guns and shoulder-fired weapons.
• Area Defense: Fighter aircraft and long-range missiles.

Operation Sindoor’s Context:

1. • IACCS was instrumental in creating an impenetrable air defense shield.
   • Enabled effective deployment of assets to counter threats from Pakistan, showcasing the strategic importance of such systems.

Significance of Air Defense Systems:

1. • Vital to national defense infrastructure, neutralizing threats from aircraft, drones, and missiles.
   • Ensures central control with decentralized execution, improving operational efficiency.