The Indian Army is expediting procurement of six AK-630 rotary air defense guns from state-owned Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited to strengthen protection along border towns vulnerable to aerial and artillery attacks. The acquisition forms part of Mission “Sudarshan Chakra,” a long-term initiative aimed at creating an integrated national air defense shield. According to official sources, the decision follows recent border clashes with Pakistan under Operation Sindoor, which exposed the need for faster, localized defensive systems to safeguard civilian and religious areas, especially across Kashmir. The AK-630 systems will be deployed to defend against drones, rockets, artillery, and mortar threats, providing a rapid-response capability at short ranges. Procured under an emergency acquisition route, the contract allows for swift induction to meet immediate operational requirements. Army officials indicated that additional units may be ordered later as part of a broader modernization plan. Originally developed by the Soviet Union in the 1970s, the AK-630 features six 30mm barrels capable of firing 4,000 rounds per minute, with an effective range of 4 kilometers. The weapon uses an electro-optical fire control system to operate effectively in all weather and lighting conditions. Mounted on trailers or mobile vehicles, the system can be quickly redeployed based on tactical needs. Once fielded, the AK-630 guns will be integrated into the Army’s Akashteer AI-based command network, enabling real-time data sharing, target tracking, and coordinated defense responses. The initiative reflects India’s growing emphasis on automated, networked, and indigenously sourced defense solutions to counter evolving aerial threats.
