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Precise, cost-effective: India’s own version of air defence missile system to be a gamechanger
New Delhi: DRDO has created the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) to effectively counter low-altitude aerial threats within a range of up to 6 kilometres. According to a senior defence official, the 4th generation VSHORADS outperforms the current Man-Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) in the Indian armed forces, incorporating a cutting-edge uncooled imaging infrared seeker.
India is set to commence ‘user trials’ for its domestically developed man-portable air defence missile system, designed to eliminate hostile aircraft, drones and helicopters at very short ranges. The development comes as the armed forces are inducting a limited number of Russian systems to address operational gaps in the ongoing military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh.
Validation of VSHORADS Upper Range And Future Developments
The upper range of the VSHORADS has been validated through a series of developmental tests. Additional tests are required to prove its effectiveness at ranges less than 1 kilometre, where precise manoeuvring and missile control are crucial. The Defence Acquisitions Council, led by Rajnath Singh, approved the procurement of the infrared homing VSHORADS missiles last January, with a budget of ₹1,920 crore.
The official mentioned that once user trials are successfully completed, bulk production can commence. Simultaneously, certain Indian companies are working on the development of ‘laser-beam riding VSHORADS’ under a ‘Make-II’ category project, where prototype development is industry-funded.
How It Will Be A Game-Changer In Indian Defence
VSHORADS presents a cost-effective option that can be rapidly deployed for close air defence protection in challenging high-altitude areas and maritime environments. It should be noted that their operational versatility and utility were demonstrated during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The armed forces, facing critical shortages in advanced man-portable air defence missiles, have resorted to emergency procurement provisions for a limited number of Russian Igla-S MANPADS over the past three years. The original plan for the procurement of 5,175 VSHORADS, initiated in June 2009, did not materialise, leaving the Army in need of a permanent solution amid heightened tensions along the northern borders with China.
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