DRDO Successfully Conducts Triple Validation Trials of VSHORADS Missile System
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has accomplished three consecutive flight-trials of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, located off the coast of Odisha. These meticulously structured tests were undertaken to reaffirm the missile system’s capability to neutralise high-velocity aerial threats operating across variable speeds, ranges, and altitudes.
Precision Intercepts Across Diverse Threat Profiles
In each of the successive trials, the VSHORADS missiles successfully intercepted and eliminated high-speed aerial targets simulating hostile aircraft under complex engagement conditions. The engagements were executed across extreme operational envelopes, validating the missile’s performance at critical engagement parameters.
Notably, the trials were conducted in the final deployment configuration. Target acquisition and missile launches were performed by field operators, underscoring operational realism and user-centric validation rather than laboratory-controlled demonstration.
Data-Driven Validation of Combat Effectiveness
Comprehensive flight data was captured and analysed using advanced instrumentation deployed at ITR Chandipur. Systems such as Telemetry units, Electro-Optical Tracking Systems, and high-precision Radars meticulously recorded trajectory, guidance accuracy, and terminal engagement metrics. The cumulative data affirmed the missile system’s reliability and effectiveness against a broad spectrum of aerial threats.
These user validation trials were conducted in the presence of representatives from the Joint Forces, alongside senior DRDO officials and development-cum-production partners, reinforcing transparency and operational confidence.
Indigenous Design for Tri-Service Application
VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence System conceived and developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and industry partners. Engineered to be lightweight yet lethal, the system is tailored to fulfil the operational requirements of all three branches of the Armed Forces—the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Its portability, coupled with precision strike capability, renders it a critical asset in countering low-altitude aerial threats, particularly in dynamic battlefield environments.
Leadership Commendations
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh extended his congratulations to DRDO, the Armed Forces, and associated industries for the successful execution of the three consecutive trials. He described the achievement as a significant milestone and indicated that the system is poised for induction into the Armed Forces in the near future.
Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, also commended the dedicated teams involved in the system’s design, development, and validation. He acknowledged the collaborative synergy between scientists, service personnel, and industry stakeholders in bringing the project to fruition.
The successful triple validation of VSHORADS not only reinforces India’s growing competence in indigenous missile technology but also fortifies the nation’s layered air defence architecture against evolving aerial contingencies.
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