VSHORADS

The Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) is a state-of-the-art portable missile system developed in India. It aims to counter low-flying aerial threats, including drones and helicopters. The system has undergone successful testing, demonstrating its capability to engage targets with reduced thermal signatures. This feature makes detection and engagement more challenging. The recent tests confirmed the missile’s effectiveness under various flight conditions, showcasing its readiness for deployment.

Development and Design

• VSHORADS was developed by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratories and Indian industry partners.
• It is a fourth-generation surface-to-air missile system designed for anti-aircraft warfare.
• The system is lightweight, weighing 20.5 kg, and is designed for portability, allowing soldiers to carry and operate it easily in the field.

Technical Specifications

• The missile measures 2 meters in length and has a diameter of 90 mm.
• It features a warhead weighing 2 kg, equipped with an adaptive proximity fuze.
• This fuze allows the missile to detonate near its target, increasing the likelihood of successful interception.
• VSHORADS can engage targets at an operational range of 250 meters to 6 kilometres and reaches speeds of up to Mach 1.5.

Operational Capabilities

VSHORADS is designed to be used by all three branches of the Indian armed forces – the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It replaces older Russian Igla systems, which have become outdated. The new system enhances India’s air defence capabilities, ensuring preparedness against modern aerial threats. Its compact design allows for shoulder launch or tripod mounting, providing flexibility in combat scenarios.

Testing and Validation

The missile system underwent rigorous testing to validate its performance. Various instruments, including telemetry and electro-optical tracking systems, were employed to gather data during flight. These tests confirmed the missile’s ability to effectively destroy various aerial threats, ensuring reliability in real-world applications.

Questions for UPSC –

1. Critically analyse the impact of indigenous defence systems on India’s military capabilities.
2. What are the key features of modern air defence systems? Explain their significance in contemporary warfare.
3. What is the role of proximity fuzes in missile technology? How do they enhance targeting accuracy?
4. Explain the significance of research and development in defence technology. How can it affect national security?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of indigenous defence systems on India’s military capabilities.

1. Indigenous systems like VSHORADS reduce dependence on foreign technology, enhancing self-reliance.
2. They improve operational readiness by providing modern, tailored solutions to specific threats.
3. Indigenous development encourages innovation and technological advancements within the domestic defense industry.
4. It boosts national pride and morale among armed forces and the general populace.
5. Enhanced military capabilities contribute to regional stability and deterrence against adversaries.

2. What are the key features of modern air defence systems? Explain their significance in contemporary warfare.

1. Modern air defence systems include advanced targeting technologies for precision engagement.
2. They feature high mobility and portability, allowing rapid deployment in various combat scenarios.
3. Integration with radar and tracking systems enhances situational awareness and response time.
4. Capability to engage low-flying targets, such as drones, is critical in modern asymmetric warfare.
5. They ensure comprehensive airspace protection, which is vital for maintaining operational superiority.

3. What is the role of proximity fuzes in missile technology? How do they enhance targeting accuracy?

1. Proximity fuzes detonate the warhead near the target, increasing the likelihood of a successful hit.
2. They are particularly effective against fast-moving and small aerial threats.
3. These fuzes reduce the need for direct hits, allowing for greater engagement flexibility.
4. They improve overall missile effectiveness, thereby enhancing combat capabilities.
5. Proximity fuzes contribute to minimizing collateral damage by controlling blast radius.

4. Explain the significance of research and development in defence technology. How can it affect national security?

1. R&D drives innovation, leading to advanced military technologies that enhance defense capabilities.
2. It enables countries to develop tailored solutions to meet specific security challenges.
3. Investment in R&D encourages a skilled workforce, contributing to economic growth and security.
4. Strong domestic R&D reduces reliance on foreign suppliers, enhancing strategic autonomy.
5. It plays important role in maintaining a technological edge over potential adversaries, thereby ensuring national security.