The recent successful test flight of the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from a ground-based portable launcher at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, has made headlines. Both flight tests completely met the mission objectives, demonstrating the capability and reliability of this new missile system.
Understanding VSHORADS
Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD), which is widely known as the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), is an indigenously designed and developed system by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad. This successful development has been achieved in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian Industry Partners.
The VSHORADS missile incorporates many innovative technologies, including a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics. These state-of-the-art technologies ensure that the missile can effectively neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges. The missile is powered by a dual thrust solid motor, and both the missile and launcher have been carefully designed for easy portability.
Significance of VSHORADS
Equipped with modern technologies, this new missile will give a significant technological boost to the Armed Forces. Since it’s portable and capable of neutralizing low-altitude aerial threats, it strengthens the capability of the army in protecting against sudden aerial attacks.
About Reaction Control System (RCS)
A crucial component of the VSHORADS missile, the Reaction Control System is responsible for precise attitude control and steering by employing thrusters. It provides small amounts of thrust in any desired direction or combination of directions, enabling the missile to navigate efficiently. The RCS also has the capacity to provide torque, making it possible to maintain control over rotation parameters such as pitch, yaw, and roll.
What are MANPADS?
Short for Man-Portable Air Defence Systems, MANPADS are short-range, lightweight surface-to-air portable missiles that can be fired by individuals or small groups. They play a crucial role in protecting troops from aerial attacks, effectively targeting low-flying aircraft. Similarly, Man-Portable Anti-Tank Systems (MANPATs) are used to destroy or incapacitate military tanks.
First introduced by the United States and the Soviet Union in the 1960s, MANPADS can engage targets at altitudes of 4.5 km, with a maximum range of 8 kilometers.
Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)
In relation to missile defense systems, “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)” often surfaces in the news. THAAD is an American anti-missile system built to intercept and destroy short and medium-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight when they are falling towards the target.
It has the capacity to intercept missiles both inside and outside the atmosphere. Notably, THAAD is interoperable with other ballistic missile defense systems and is highly mobile, making it deployable worldwide.
