Rajasthan: In a significant milestone for India’s defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted three flight-tests of its fourth-generation Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan on October 3 and 4.
According to a statement from the Indian government, the tests were executed against high-speed targets, demonstrating critical parameters related to maximum range and altitude interception. These trials confirmed the system’s hit-to-kill capability across various engagement scenarios, including approaching, receding, and crossing modes.
The development of the VSHORADS missiles is now complete, with two production agencies actively engaged in the Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) mode. The successful trials utilized missiles developed through these partnerships, paving the way for early user trials and production, in line with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India).
VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence System that has been indigenously designed and developed by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and DcPPs. The project has seen active involvement from all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces since its inception.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended his congratulations to the DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry partners involved in these successful development trials. He noted that this new missile, equipped with modern technologies, will significantly enhance the Armed Forces’ capabilities against aerial threats.
Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development and Chairman of DRDO, also commended the DRDO team, industry partners, and users for the successful flight-tests.