Context:
The Indian defence establishment recently initiated a tender for the procurement of 30 units of the indigenous Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system.
Relevance:
GS III: Defence
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system
- Features
About Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system:
The Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system is a Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats over short distances. Here are some key points about the VSHORAD missile system:
Purpose and Function:
- The VSHORAD missile system is intended to provide short-range air defense capabilities to protect ground forces, critical assets, and military installations from low-altitude aerial threats.
- It is primarily designed to engage and neutralize threats such as helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and low-flying aircraft.
Development and Origin:
- The VSHORAD missile system has been developed indigenously by India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
- DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), located in Hyderabad, played a significant role in its development, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners.
Users:
- The primary user of VSHORAD missiles in India is the Indian Army. It is designed to enhance the Indian Army’s air defense capabilities in a variety of operational scenarios.
Features:
- The VSHORAD missile system incorporates several advanced features and technologies, including:
- Dual-band Imaging Infrared (IIR) Seeker: This seeker technology helps in tracking and engaging targets effectively.
- Miniaturized Reaction Control System: This system aids in controlling the missile’s trajectory, ensuring accurate targeting.
- Integrated Avionics: Advanced avionics systems enhance the missile’s guidance and control capabilities.
- Dual-Thrust Solid Motor: The missile is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor, which provides the necessary thrust for interception.
- Portability: Both the missile and its launcher have been designed to be portable, allowing for quick deployment even in challenging terrain.
