DRDO Successfully Conducts Flight Trials of Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) Off Odisha Coast

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted three successive flight trials of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, off the Odisha coast. The tests demonstrated the missile’s capability to intercept and neutralize aerial threats, particularly low-flying drones and high-speed targets.

During the trials, the VSHORADS missile system successfully destroyed all three targets, which were designed to mimic drones with reduced thermal signatures under varied flying conditions. These trials were conducted in the final deployment configuration, where two field operators handled weapon readiness, target acquisition, and missile firing, replicating real-world battlefield conditions.

Pinpoint Accuracy and Advanced Tracking

The flight data was captured by an array of sophisticated range instruments, including Telemetry, Electro-Optical Tracking Systems, and Radar deployed by ITR Chandipur. The tests validated the pinpoint accuracy of the VSHORADS system and reinforced its effectiveness in neutralizing drones and other airborne threats at close range.

Indigenously Developed Air Defence System

VSHORADS is a Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS), designed and developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Development cum Production Partners. The system is built to cater to the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, providing them with a highly mobile and efficient air defence capability.

High-Level Appreciation for the Success

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces, and industry partners, calling the achievement a significant milestone in India’s defence capabilities.

Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, also commended the entire DRDO team, recognizing the collaborative efforts of researchers, users, and production partners in making the VSHORADS system a success.

This achievement further strengthens India’s self-reliance in defence technology, showcasing its ability to develop cutting-edge air defence systems capable of tackling emerging aerial threats.