VSHORADS missile is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed and developed indigenously by DRDO against high-speed unmanned aerial targets – UAVs
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved two successful flight tests of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile at the Integrated Test Range near Chandipur, Odisha, on February 28 and 29. According to the Defence Ministry’s statement, these tests were conducted against high-speed unmanned aerial targets in various interception scenarios. The missiles effectively intercepted and destroyed the targets throughout the test flights, fulfilling the mission objectives.
What Is VSHORADS?
The VSHORADS utilises a dual-thrust solid motor designed to neutralise low-altitude aerial threats within short ranges. The design of the missile, including the launcher, has been highly optimised to ensure easy portability. Developed indigenously by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with various DRDO laboratories and industry partners, the VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD), stated the Ministry.
The Ministry further highlighted that the VSHORADS missile integrates several innovative technologies, such as a miniaturised Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, all of which have demonstrated successful performance during the tests.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded DRDO, the Army, and the industries engaged in the developmental trials of VSHORADS. He remarked that the missile, equipped with contemporary technologies, will provide a significant technological boost to the Armed Forces. The official observers of the Indian Army, along with senior scientists from different DRDO laboratories and industry partners, witnessed the flight test, stated the statement.
Nitish Chavan
