To neutralize aerial threats and attacks right in their tracks, the Indian Army is gearing up with new, advanced weaponry along its borders with China and Pakistan, bolstering its air defense capabilities. The Army is set to deploy over 3,000 missiles with more than 500 launchers across both borders, a strategic enhancement valued at 68 billion rupees.
Among the arsenal, there are two types of missiles: The man-portable Igla-S missile, licensed from Russia and domestically manufactured, and the indigenous VSHORAD missile system. Both are designed for short-range defense, capable of taking down enemy drones, helicopters, fighter jets, and missiles.
Source: aajtak
The latest version of Igla, a laser-guided model, represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor introduced to the forces in 1989. Companies based in Hyderabad and Pune will produce 200 launchers and 1,200 missiles for both the Army and the Air Force, with 700 earmarked for the latter. The remaining launchers and missiles will be delivered in the following phase.
High-Altitude Capability
The Igla-S anti-aircraft missile, weighing 10.8 Kg and with a system weight of 18 kg, has a length of 5.16 feet and diameter of 72 millimeters. The missile tip carries a 1.17 kg explosive warhead, with a range of 5 to 6 km and capable of reaching altitudes up to 11,000 feet.
Source: aajtak
Speeds Towards Target at 2266 km/hr
The missile accelerates towards its target at a velocity of 2266 km/hr, leaving the enemy with little chance of evasion. The new Igla-S handheld anti-aircraft missile will replace the older model in the Indian Army's inventory.
VShorAD: India's Response to S-400 Air Defense System
VShorAD, set to be deployed along the China and Pakistan borders, has undergone multiple successful tests. Comparable to the Russian S-400, recent deployments have included truck-mounted and armored vehicle-based launchers, providing more versatile anti-air capabilities.
Source: aajtak
Capable of engaging aircraft, fighter jets, helicopters, missiles, or drones, VSHORADS is developed with DRDO's assistance by the Research Center Imarat in Hyderabad. This missile system is equipped with advanced technologies like dual-band IIR seeker, miniature reaction control system, and integrated avionics.
Lightweight, Lethal and Precise Air Defense System
Its dual-thrust solid motor propulsion system grants it high speed. Indian armed forces can utilize this missile for anti-aircraft warfare. Weighing 20.5 kg with a length of approximately 6.7 feet and a diameter of 3.5 inches, it is capable of carrying a 2 kg warhead.
Strikes at a Speed of 1800 km/hr
With a range from 250 meters up to 6 km and a capability of reaching high altitudes of 11,500 feet, the missile has a maximum speed of Mach 1.5, equivalent to roughly 1800 km/h. Previous testing occurred last March and on September 27, 2022.
