Context: The Indian defence establishment recently initiated a tender for the procurement of 30 units of the indigenous Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system.

About Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system

• The Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system is a Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats over short distances. Here are some key points about the VSHORAD missile system:

Purpose and Function

• The VSHORAD missile system is intended to provide short-range air defense capabilities to protect ground forces, critical assets, and military installations from low-altitude aerial threats.

• It is primarily designed to engage and neutralize threats such as helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and low-flying aircraft.

Development and Origin

• The VSHORAD missile system has been developed indigenously by India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).

• DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), located in Hyderabad, played a significant role in its development, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners.

Users

• The primary user of VSHORAD missiles in India is the Indian Army. It is designed to enhance the Indian Army’s air defense capabilities in a variety of operational scenarios.

Features

The VSHORAD missile system incorporates several advanced features and technologies, including:

• Dual-band Imaging Infrared (IIR) Seeker: This seeker technology helps in tracking and engaging targets effectively.

• Miniaturized Reaction Control System: This system aids in controlling the missile’s trajectory, ensuring accurate targeting.

• Integrated Avionics: Advanced avionics systems enhance the missile’s guidance and control capabilities.

• Dual-Thrust Solid Motor: The missile is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor, which provides the necessary thrust for interception.

• Portability: Both the missile and its launcher have been designed to be portable, allowing for quick deployment even in challenging terrain.