India’s Missile Defense Shield: DRDO Successfully Tests VSHORADS Missiles in Pokhran
India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight tests of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at Pokhran on October 3 and 4. VSHORADS, a man-portable air defense system, has been designed and developed indigenously by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with various DRDO laboratories and Development cum Production Partners (DcPPs). The three armed services have been involved in the project from the outset and participated in the developmental trials.
During the tests, the VSHORADS system engaged high-speed targets, demonstrating crucial capabilities, including maximum range and altitude interception. These trials confirmed the weapon system's ability to consistently achieve hit-to-kill success across various target engagement scenarios, including approaching, receding, and crossing modes.
The development phase of the VSHORADS missiles has been completed, and two production agencies are now engaged in the Development cum Production Partner mode. The missiles used in these trials were produced through DcPPs, paving the way for expedited user trials and production, aligning with the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the DRDO, the armed forces, and industry partners for their contributions to the successful development trials. He noted that the new missile, equipped with advanced technologies, will enhance the armed forces' capabilities against aerial threats. Additionally, Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, extended his congratulations to the team for the successful flight tests.
The VSHORADS missiles, developed over the past few years, are expected to meet the critical defense requirements of the Indian Armed Forces against enemy aircraft, drones, and other aerial threats at short ranges. The forces have relied on Russian Igla missiles for this purpose but have recognized the need for modernization for over a decade.
On the same day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2024 in New Delhi, reiterating India's commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and promoting regional cooperation. He emphasized India’s dedication to ensuring the security of vital international maritime routes and highlighted India's role as a credible and preferred security partner in the Indo-Pacific.
Overall, the successful tests of the VSHORADS missiles mark a significant milestone in enhancing India’s defense capabilities and reflect the growing involvement of the domestic defense industry in developing indigenous defense technologies.