DRDO Successfully Tests Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS)

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted two successful flight tests of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile on February 28th and 29th, 2024. The tests, carried out from a ground-based portable launcher off the coast of Odisha, demonstrated the system’s capability to intercept and destroy high-speed unmanned aerial targets under various interception scenarios.

Key Details and Features

Indigenous Development

VSHORADS, a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD), has been designed and developed indigenously by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. The missile incorporates advanced technologies, including a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, which have been successfully proven during the tests.

Technical Specifications

The missile is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor and is specifically designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges. Its design, including the launcher, has been optimized for easy portability, enhancing its usability in various operational scenarios.

Successful Test Flights

During all the test flights, the VSHORADS missiles effectively intercepted and destroyed the targets, meeting the mission objectives. The tests were witnessed by officials from the Indian Army, senior scientists from various DRDO laboratories, and industry partners.

Recognition and Congratulations

Acknowledgement by Defence Authorities

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Army, and industry partners for the successful development trials. He emphasized that the incorporation of modern technologies in this new missile would provide a significant technological boost to the Armed Forces, enhancing their defence capabilities.

Appreciation from DRDO Leadership

Secretary DD R&D and Chairman DRDO extended their congratulations to the entire team involved in the design and development of the VSHORADS missile. Their acknowledgment underscores the collective effort and expertise that went into achieving this milestone in indigenous defence technology.