VSHORAD

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VSHORAD
News: Two projects worth over Rs 6,800 crore are being progressed by the Indian Army to develop indigenous Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) systems. These shoulder-fired missile systems are being developed to counter aerial threats along the borders with China and Pakistan. The Army intends to procure over 500 launchers and around 3,000 missiles through these indigenous routes.

About VSHORAD Systems:

• The value and versatility of VSHORAD systems have been demonstrated in recent conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war.
• These missiles are essential for providing a layered air defense capability against low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones.
• The Indian military is actively replacing its aging VSHORAD inventory, notably the Igla-1M system introduced in 1989 and slated for de-induction in 2013.
• The development of indigenous VSHORAD systems aligns with the Indian government’s \'Make in India\' initiative, which aims to enhance selfreliance in defense manufacturing.
• Meetings among project stakeholders are expected to occur soon to discuss the implementation of these projects within the framework of Make in India.

Project Details	Laser Beam Riding VSHORADS	DRDO’s Infra-Red Homing VSHORADS	Emergency Procurement and Revival of Igla-S Deal
Project Value (Rs)	4,800 crore	Not specified	Not applicable
Project Type	Laser beam riding VSHORADS	Infra-red homing VSHORADS	Emergency procurement and revival of Igla-S deal
Collaborating Entities	Laser beam riding VSHORADS	DRDO, Adani Defence, I-Comm	Indian Army and Air Force
Targeted Threats	Enemy drones, fighter aircraft, helicopters	Not specified	Immediate shortage of VSHORAD systems
Systems Being Developed	1,200 missiles and 200 launchers	Not specified	96 Russian Igla launchers
Lead Service/Branch	Indian Army	DRDO	Indian Army and Air Force
Additional Recipients	Indian Air Force	Not specified	Not applicable
Current Status/Development	Under collaboration for development	Testing completed; miniaturization in progress	Procurement ongoing; deal revival proposed

About DRDO:
• Established in 1958, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is a premier R&D organization under the Ministry of Defence, India.
• DRDO is headquartered in New Delhi and operates a network of over 50 laboratories across India.
• The organization specializes in developing cutting-edge technologies for the Indian Armed Forces.
• Notable projects by DRDO include the Agni and Prithvi missiles, Tejas fighter aircraft, and Arjun tank.
• DRDO has developed critical systems such as electronic warfare (EW) systems, radars, sonars, torpedoes, and combat vehicles.
• As the Indian Army continues to enhance its air defense capabilities, the successful development and deployment of indigenous Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) systems will significantly strengthen the country’s ability to counter aerial threats along its borders with China and Pakistan.