DRDO QRSAM Missile
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the first flight-tests of an Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) on August 24. The tests were carried out off the coast of Odisha, targeting three different objectives at varying ranges and altitudes.
Components of IADWS
- Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missiles (QRSAM)
- A short-range Surface to Air Missile (SAM) system.
- Designed to protect moving armoured columns of the Army from aerial attacks.
- Operational range between three to 30 kilometers.
- Features include search and track capabilities, fire on short halts, and 360-degree radar coverage.
- Highly mobile with a fully automated command and control system, two radars, and one launcher.
- Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS)
- A fourth-generation, miniaturized Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD).
- Can neutralize aerial threats within a range of 300 meters to six kilometers.
- Capable of countering drones and various aerial threats.
- Directed Energy Weapon (DEW)
- Vehicle-mounted Laser DEW MK-II(A) demonstrated successfully in April by CHESS.
- Targets include fixed-wing UAVs and swarm drones with a range of less than three kilometers.
- Capable of causing structural damage and disabling surveillance sensors.
Significance
- The successful tests represent a strategic leap in India's indigenous defence capabilities.
- The integrated operation of these systems is controlled by a Centralised Command and Control Centre developed by Defence Research and Development Laboratory, Hyderabad.
- This achievement showcases seamless coordination of missiles and directed energy weapons, significantly enhancing India's multi-layered air defence against diverse aerial threats and reducing reliance on foreign systems.
Strategic Implications
The tests are seen as a stepping stone towards Mission Sudarshan Chakra, aimed at establishing a comprehensive defence shield as announced by Prime Minister.