India may soon have its own desi portable air defence missiles
man-portable air defence missile system, designed to eliminate hostile aircraft, drones, and helicopters at very short ranges. This development comes as the armed forces are currently inducting a limited number of Russian systems to address operational gaps in the ongoing military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, a TOI report stated.
The indigenous very short-range air defence system (VSHORADS), developed by DRDO to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats within a 6-km range, is expected to undergo user trials by April-May, according to a senior defense official.
The official highlighted that the 4th generation VSHORADS surpasses existing MANPADS in the Indian armed forces due to its state-of-the-art uncooled imaging infrared seeker.
The defense acquisitions council, led by Rajnath Singh, approved the procurement of VSHORADS missiles at a cost of Rs 1,920 crore in January last year. The VSHORADS, with proven upper-range capabilities through developmental tests, is now set for crucial user trials before potential bulk production.
Simultaneously, Indian companies are exploring the development of «laser-beam riding VSHORADS» under the «Make-II» category project, funded by the industry for prototype development.
Despite heightened tensions along the northern borders with China, the armed forces view VSHORADS as a low-cost option for swift deployment, offering close air defense protection in rugged high-altitude areas and the maritime domain.
An officer noted their operational versatility and utility, citing their success during the Russia-Ukraine war.
The procurement history of VSHORADS traces back to a tri-Service case initiated in June 2009. However, the selection process saw the Russian Igla-S anti-aircraft
