How the VSHORAD missile system will boost the Indian Army’s mountain warfare prowess

• The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) recently accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) to procure the Very Short Range Air Defence System or VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system.
• It is designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) among other weapon systems for the Army and Navy.

VSHORAD Missile system

• Capacity: It is meant to kill low altitude aerial threats at short ranges
• Specification: A man portable Air Defence System (MANPAD)
• Design: It is developed indigenously by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian Industry Partners.
• Propulsion of the missile: It is propelled by a dual thrust solid motor
• Technologies incorporated: Miniaturised Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics.

Benefit for India

• Man portable and lightweight: So, it can be deployed in the mountains close to the LAC at a short notice.
• A critical air defence missile for the forces: It is be an aid even for an all-equipped infantry unit, and will be the best option for mountain warfare.
• Will strengthen India’s air defence capabilities: It is a robust and quickly deployable system.

When are they expected to be inducted?

• First step: The AoN is the first step in the long capital procurement process in defence. Not all AoNs accorded necessarily culminate into a final order.
• Flight tests & other trials: These missile systems can be delivered to the forces in another three to four years with industry support if the orders are placed on time.

Prelims Takeaway

• DRDO
• DAC
• VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system