Very Short-Range Air Defence System Missiles: Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) recently conducted two successful test flights of very short-range Air Defence System missiles (VSHORADS).

Key Highlights:

• The missiles were launched from the ground-based portable launcher.
• The test flight was conducted at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha.
• To evaluate the weapon system's resilience under challenging circumstances, the missiles were tested against fast-moving aerial targets that were being challenged by numerous threats.
• The missiles were tested at distinct levels including short-range high-altitude operating targets, long-range medium altitude, low radar signatures with receding and crossing targets, and salvo launch with two missiles fired in fast succession.

Key Points of VSHORADS:

• The Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD).
• It has been designed and developed by DRDO in collaboration with Indian industry partners.
• The missile is designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges.
• The design of the missile including the launcher has been highly optimized to ensure easy portability.
• The missile incorporates many novel technologies including miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, which has successfully proven during the tests.

Significance:

• The missiles launched by DRDO are not only made to neutralize low altitude aerial threats at short ranges propelled by a dual thrust solid motor but also are equipped with the latest technologies to enhance the Armed Forces technologically.

About DRDO:

• Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is India's largest research organization.
• It was founded in 1958.
• It is headquartered in New Delhi, India.
• It is an agency under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
• It is charged with the military's research and development.
• It has a network of laboratories engaged in developing defence technologies covering various fields, like aeronautics, armaments, electronics, land combat engineering, life sciences, materials, missiles, and naval systems.
• The Minister currently responsible for DRDO is Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence.
• Dr Samir V Kamat is the current chairman of DRDO and Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development.

Motto of DRDO: “Strength’s origin is in Science”.