New Delhi: Three flight-tests of the 4th generation, technically-advanced miniaturised Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) was successfully conducted by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan on October 3 -4.
Demonstrating very critical parameters of maximum range and maximum altitude interception, the tests were carried out against high-speed target. These development trials showcased repeatability of hit-to-kill capability of the weapon system in various target engagement scenarios covering approaching, receding and crossing modes.
The DRDO in a statement on October 5 said, “These development trials showcased repeatability of hit-to-kill capability of the weapon system in various target engagement scenarios covering approaching, receding and crossing modes.”
Propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor, the previous test of the missile was held in February this year.
For advanced VSHORADS development and production, DRDO has engaged two production agencies. It has shortlisted two private firms—Adani Defence Aerospace and Icomm Ltd—for the development and production of a fourth-generation advanced miniaturised Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) meant to neutralise low-altitude aerial threats, including drones.
According to DRDO sources, the development of VSHORADS missiles has been completed, and two production agencies — Icomm Ltd and Adani Defence & Aerospace– have been engaged in the Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) mode. This decision follows three successful flight tests conducted at Pokhran, Rajasthan, showcasing the missile’s capabilities against high-speed targets.
The missiles realised through DcPPs have been successfully used, thus paving the way for early User trials and Production in a short time span in line with the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, stated the DRDO.
Designed and developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and DcPPs, VSHORADS is a man-portable air defence system. The three services – the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and India Navy have been associated with the project right from the beginning and participated during the developmental trials.
Congratulating DRDO, armed forces and the industry involved in the successful development trials, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “This new missile equipped with modern technologies will give further technological boost to the armed forces against aerial threats.”
Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO also congratulated the DRDO team, industry partners and users for the successful flight-tests.
For the last few years, the missiles have been under development and are expected to meet the critical requirements of the forces to tackle enemy aircraft, drones and other aerial targets at short ranges. At present, the forces rely on the Russian Igla missiles for their requirements but have felt the need to modernise their inventory for over a decade now.
