Army to deploy next-gen missile systems against aerial threats

The Indian Army is adding three next-generation weapon systems to counter enemy airborne threats such as incoming missiles and rockets.

Advertisement

The first is an air defence weapon designed to protect infantry and armoured battalions in battle. A Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has been tested. With a range of 30 km, the Army aims to finalise a contract for its procurement within four months.

For close-range threats, the Army is considering a Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS). It has two options — an indigenously developed DRDO system and an imported alternative for immediate operational requirements.

The DRDO’s system has undergone three successful tests off the Odisha coast against high-speed, low-altitude targets. On February 1, the Ministry of Defence stated that “in all three flight tests, the missiles intercepted and completely destroyed the targets”. VSHORADS is a man-portable air defence system designed and developed in India.

While the DRDO works on the final version, the Army is planning an emergency purchase from a foreign vendor. Additionally, a Request for Information (RFI) — the first stage of the tender process — will be issued soon for Indian manufacturers.

The Army has also begun inducting the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), which has a range of 70 km, allowing threats to be neutralised at a greater distance. A test firing of the system is planned for this summer, with more units to be inducted.

The MRSAM is derived from a similar system deployed on Indian Navy warships. The Army version has been jointly developed by the DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries and includes a multi-function radar and a mobile launcher system. The first unit has already been inducted in the eastern sector.