Maiden Flight Test of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS)
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the first flight test of a new indigenous Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off Odisha's coast. This system is designed for countering enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles within 30-35 km range.
Components of IADWS
- Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QR-SAM): Range: 30 km
- Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS): Range: up to 6 km
- Laser-Based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW): Range: 2-4 km
Control and Integration
- The system is coordinated by a Centralised Command and Control Centre, developed by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL).
- During tests, it effectively neutralized multiple targets, including high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles.
Technological Synergy and Development
The DRDO's development of the IADWS demonstrates the integration of various technologies from different labs over time, beginning with the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) initiated in 1983 by A P J Abdul Kalam.
Key Laboratories and Developments
- Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL): Specializes in rockets and missiles. Developed the Agni and Prithvi series.
- Terminal Ballistic Research Laboratory: Focuses on warhead design.
- Research Centre Imarat: Specializes in missile technologies like navigation and control.
Collaboration and Technology Transfer
- Technological advancements are shared with private companies like Carborundum Universal Limited (CUMI) for manufacturing critical components like ceramic radomes.
- There's potential for international collaboration, notably with Israel's military for systems like the Iron Dome, incorporating technologies such as the Tamir interceptor missile.
International Cooperation
India's strategy involves joint development, sharing strengths, and integrating complementary technologies, as seen in projects like the BrahMos cruise missile with Russia and the LR-SAM with Israel.
