OSA-AK Missile Drill: The Indian Army’s White Tiger Division recently proved its skills in a live missile-firing exercise. On March 30, 2025, at the Gopalpur Seawards Firing Ranges, soldiers successfully hit every target using the 9K33 Osa-AK missile system. The exercise showed how well-trained and precise the Army’s Air Defence team is.
What is the OSA-AK Missile System?
शान्तौ यत् अधिकं स्वेदसि, संग्रामे तत् अल्पं रक्तसि।
Air Defence Warriors of the #WhiteTigerDivision showcased exceptional skill and precision during the OSA-AK missile firing at #Gopalpur Seawards Firing Ranges. With all direct hits on Manuverable Expandable Aerial Target… pic.twitter.com/U1kVhDmVVC
— Southern Command INDIAN ARMY (@IaSouthern) April 1, 2025
The Osa-AK is a powerful, short-range missile system designed to take down enemy aircraft and drones. It was first made by the Soviet Union in the 1960s but is still used by many countries today, including India. The system is fast, mobile, and can work in different terrains.
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One of its best features is that it can detect, track, and fire at targets all by itself. The missile launcher and radar are built into one vehicle, making it quick to respond to threats. It can also move easily it drives on roads, floats on water, and can even be transported by air.
Army Air Defence
The Corps of Army Air Defence (AAD) has been guarding India’s skies since 1939. At first, it was part of the British Indian Army. Later, in 1994, it became its own separate unit. Its main job is to stop enemy planes and missiles flying below 5,000 feet.
The Army Air Defence College (AADC) trains soldiers to use advanced weapons like the Osa-AK. The recent missile test proves that their training works perfectly.
The Osa-AK is not just used by India. Both Russia and Ukraine have these missile systems in their armies. In the ongoing war in Ukraine, many Osa systems have been destroyed in battles.
In 2019, Ukraine said it destroyed an Osa-AKM missile system in Donbas. More recently, Ukraine even modified some Osa launchers to fire air-to-air missiles because they were running low on missiles. This shows how flexible and useful the Osa system can be in real wars.
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White Tiger Division’s Success
The recent test at Gopalpur was a big success. Every missile fired by the White Tiger Division hit its target perfectly. This kind of accuracy is crucial for India’s defence, especially with new threats like drones and advanced missiles.
The Indian Army keeps upgrading its weapons and training to stay ready for any danger. Tests like this one show that India’s air defence is strong and reliable.
As wars and technology change, the Indian Army is making sure it stays ahead. The Osa-AK might be an old system, but it still works very well. With highly trained soldiers and regular practice, India’s Air Defence team is always prepared to protect the country.
The Gopalpur test was not just about hitting targets it was a message that India’s skies are safe and secure. The Army will keep improving its weapons and skills to face any future threats.
