Chandigarh, Oct 5: The Indian Army is looking to strengthen its layered air defence along the Pakistan border by acquiring six AK630 30-mm multi-barrel mobile guns, designed to counter drones, loitering munitions, and missiles. The Army has issued a request for proposal (RFP) for the procurement, a step that will be followed by price negotiation and contract finalisation.
The project, involving Advance Weapon and Equipment India Ltd (AWEIL), a Ministry of Defence-owned company, aims to enhance protection of low-level airspace up to 10,000 metres—a critical zone used by Army helicopters, rockets, missiles, and artillery. Officials said securing this airspace is also essential for safeguarding towns, villages, schools, hospitals, colleges, and religious sites along the border.
The AK630 system, mounted on a trailer and towed by a high-mobility vehicle, can fire up to 3,000 rounds per minute with an effective range of 4–6 km. Its automated turret, controlled by radar and fire systems, enables round-the-clock, all-weather engagement of incoming aerial threats. The gun, widely used by the Navy in its naval variant, will be integrated into the Army’s broader air defence network, Akashteer, forming a key part of the upcoming shield for population centres and critical nodes along the International Border and Line of Control.
The requirement for mobile and potent air defence weapons has gained urgency following recent conflicts. During Operation Sindoor, Pakistani forces targeted civilian infrastructure and border towns with rockets and drones. While Army Air Defence units successfully countered these attacks, officials noted that the experience underscored the need for advanced systems capable of rapid deployment and enhanced protection in future contingencies.
