India is gearing up to commence ‘user trials’ for its indigenous man-portable air defence missile system, designed to eliminate hostile aircraft, drones, and helicopters at very short ranges.

Desi Portable Air Defence Missiles

This development comes as the armed forces are currently inducting a limited number of Russian systems to address operational gaps in the ongoing military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh. The indigenous very short-range air defence system (VSHORADS), developed by DRDO to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats within a 6-km range, is expected to undergo user trials by April-May, according to a senior defense official.

The official highlighted that the 4th generation VSHORADS surpasses existing MANPADS in the Indian armed forces due to its state-of-the-art uncooled imaging infrared seeker.

The defense acquisitions council approved the procurement of VSHORADS missiles at a cost of Rs 1,920 crore in January last year. The VSHORADS, with proven upper-range capabilities through developmental tests, is now set for crucial user trials before potential bulk production. Simultaneously, Indian companies are exploring the development of “laser-beam riding VSHORADS” under the “Make-II” category project, funded by the industry for prototype development.

Low-cost Option For Swift Deployment

Despite heightened tensions along the northern borders with China, the armed forces view VSHORADS as a low-cost option for swift deployment, offering close air defense protection in rugged high-altitude areas and the maritime domain. The procurement history of VSHORADS traces back to a tri-Service case initiated in June 2009. However, the selection process saw the Russian Igla-S anti-aircraft missile system chosen over French and Swedish contenders.

MANPADS

As a temporary solution, the Army and IAF resorted to emergency procurement of Igla-S MANPADS over the past three years. The latest contract, signed in May last year, included 100 Igla-S missiles and 48 launchers.  While the Army and IAF possess the older Igla-1M systems since 1989, the Igla-S variant boasts an improved interception range of up to 6-km. The success of the indigenous VSHORADS in user trials could mark a significant milestone in bolstering India’s air defense capabilities.