By Aritra Banerjee
In an effort to strengthen its defence capabilities against China in high altitude areas (HAA), the Indian Army has decided to acquire two different types of very short-range air defence systems (VSHORADS). The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced the decision, which approved the acquisition of the systems to safeguard the Indo-China border against enemy aircraft and drones.
The first of the two systems will be shoulder-fired, made under the “Make in India” initiative. This system will be developed through partnerships between foreign and Indian companies. Among the firms that could participate in the contest are French firm Thales and Indian Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), along with Sweden’s Saab.
The second type of system will be tripod-based, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with its development-cum-production partner model. The private sector is expected to play a significant role in developing this system.
With the acquisition of these VSHORADS, the Indian Army will be better equipped to counter any potential threats from China. The move is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s defence capabilities and promote self-reliance in the defence sector.
