India's New Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS)
India has initiated the first firing tests of a new Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) aimed at neutralizing enemy air threats using missiles and high-powered lasers. This multi-layered system is designed to tackle a variety of threats simultaneously, from aircraft and missiles to drones.
Key Features of IADWS
- The system is part of the Sudarshan Chakra project, announced by Prime Minister and will include long-range interceptors for ballistic missiles in the future.
- Tested off the coast of Odisha, the IADWS successfully targeted and destroyed:
- Two high-speed fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles simulating fighter jets.
- A multi-copter drone.
Components of IADWS
- It includes indigenous components such as:
- Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM).
- Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missiles.
- High-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW).
- A Centralised Command and Control Centre, developed by Defence Research & Development Laboratory, integrates VSHORADS and DEW.
- The system tests confirmed that all components, including communication, radars, and command control, performed flawlessly.
Future Developments
- Under Project Kusha, DRDO is developing a long-range air defence system capable of engaging threats over 400 km, which will also be incorporated into IADWS.
- This project is in collaboration with the private sector.
Impact and Acknowledgements
Following the successful tests, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the efforts of DRDO, the armed forces, and the industry. He emphasized that the new system would significantly enhance the area defence for critical facilities.
