Who Is Dr Ramarao? Why Is Internet Talking About This Kannadiga Amid Iran-Israel War?

News18

14-06-2025

Last Updated:
On Friday, Israeli forces targeted Iran's nuclear and military sites as part of 'Operation Rising Lion'.
Iran and Israel, the two regional foes, are locked in a bitter battle, with both launching airstrikes at each other in the last 24 hours.
Tensions rose after Israeli forces targeted Iran's nuclear and military sites as part of 'Operation Rising Lion' on Friday. In retaliation, Iran launched an attack against its enemy on Friday night.
Amid the Iran-Israel conflict, one name that is grabbing headlines is Dr Prahlada Ramarao, the Kannadiga behind India's indigenous Akash surface-to-air missile system. The missile system that stood as the country's first line of defence tracked 616 targets, including 64 simultaneous ones, with a remarkable 99% neutralisation rate, during the most recent episode of India-Pakistan border tensions.
In a post on X, Anand Ranganathan wrote, 'Thoughts tonight with Israel, and also Dr Ramarao, the man who on a shoestring budget built our indigenous ADS Akash." His post came weeks after the indigenously developed Akash missile system played a critical role in thwarting Pakistan's sustained aerial attacks in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor.
Thoughts tonight with Israel, and also Dr Ramarao, the man who on a shoestring budget built our indigenous ADS Akash that tracked 616 Pak missiles and drones (64 simultaneously) before launching interceptor missiles against them achieving an overall neutralisation rate of 99 %.— Anand Ranganathan (@ARanganathan72) June 13, 2025
As soon as the post was shared, many users flocked to the comments section to express their views. 'Incredible feat by Dr. Ramarao and the Akash system, protecting lives with precision on a modest budget—true brilliance," read a comment.
Who is Dr Prahlada Ramarao?
Dr Prahlada Ramarao is a Kannadiga scientist whose work with the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) influenced India's missile defence capabilities.
His involvement with the Akash missile began during the early years of India's missile development activities. India's 'Missile Man' and former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam appointed Ramarao as the Akash programme's youngest project director.
The Akash missile is a critical component of India's air defence system. Produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited and developed by DRDO, it has progressed over time to include the advanced Akash-NG model. With a range of up to 80 kilometres and top speeds of 2,500 kilometres per hour, the newest version can lock onto 64 targets and unleash 12 missiles at the same time.
The Former DRDO scientist recently shared insights into the crucial moments and challenges during the missile's development. Speaking with ANI, he said, 'Despite the challenges, the entire team's dedication and the relentless support of Dr Kalam kept the project on track."