DRDO Tests Indigenous Integrated Air Defence System

India achieved a major milestone in indigenous defence capability with the successful maiden flight-tests of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on August 23, 2025, off the Odisha coast. The test showcased the integration of Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM), Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missiles, and a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW)—demonstrating a powerful, multi-layered air defence shield against a variety of aerial threats.

What is IADWS?

A Multi-Layered Defence Architecture

IADWS is a fully indigenous integrated air defence system designed to protect critical assets and strategic locations from diverse aerial threats such as aircraft, drones, and missiles. It consists of,

• QRSAM: Designed for neutralizing high-speed targets at medium ranges.
• VSHORADS: A shoulder-fired missile for close-range, low-altitude threats.
• DEW: A high-energy laser weapon capable of destroying drones with precision.

Centralised Control and Indigenous Design

The system is managed by a Centralised Command and Control Centre, developed by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), which ensures seamless coordination across components. The Research Centre Imarat (RCI) developed the VSHORADS, while the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) created the Directed Energy Weapon.

Highlights of the Maiden Flight-Tests

Target Elimination Across Multiple Layers

During the test conducted at 1230 hrs on August 23, the IADWS successfully intercepted and destroyed,

• Two high-speed fixed-wing UAVs
• One multi-copter drone

These targets were neutralized simultaneously by the three integrated systems—QRSAM, VSHORADS, and DEW—at various ranges and altitudes, confirming the multi-layered capability.

Performance Verification

The systems’ accuracy and coordination were validated through,

• Range instruments from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur
• Flawless communication, radar, and command systems
• Presence of senior DRDO scientists and Armed Forces officials, who confirmed the test results

Strategic and Defence Significance

Boost to Indigenous Defence

This successful demonstration positions India among the few countries globally with integrated missile and laser-based air defence systems. It reaffirms the strength of India’s self-reliant defence ecosystem under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission.

Enhancing Area Defence Capabilities

As stated by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, this test validates India’s readiness to defend key strategic facilities and urban centres against advanced aerial threats, including enemy drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles.