By Staff Correspondent
On March 14, 2023, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) accomplished two consecutive successful flight tests of its Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile system. The tests were conducted from a ground-based man-portable launcher against high-speed unmanned aerial targets at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. The targets were intercepted successfully, meeting all mission objectives.
Designed and developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian Industry Partners, VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) intended for neutralising low altitude aerial threats at short ranges. It incorporates numerous innovative technologies, such as a Dual-band IIR Seeker, a miniaturised Reaction Control System, and integrated avionics. The missile system’s propulsion is powered by a dual-thrust solid motor.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO and its industry partners, stating that the missile system, equipped with novel technologies, will provide further technological advancements to the Armed Forces. DRDO Chairman, Secretary of Department of Defence R&D, Dr Samir V Kamat, also congratulated the teams responsible for the consecutive successful flight tests of the indigenous VSHORADS missile system.
