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Source: The post is based on the article “How the VSHORAD missile system will boost the Indian Army’s mountain warfare prowess” published in the Indian Express on 12th January 2023.
What is the News?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) to procure the Very Short Range Air Defence System or VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system.
What is a Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORAD)?
Read here: Successful Flight Tests of Very Short Range Air Defence System(VSHORADS) Missile by DRDO |
Incorporation of technologies: The missile is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor. The missile incorporates many novel technologies including a miniaturised Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics. The DRDO has designed the missile and its launcher in a way to ensure easy portability.
How will VSHORAD help India?
Deployed faster: Being man-portable and lightweight compared to the other missile systems in the Army’s armoury, it can be deployed in the mountains close to the LAC and rugged terrain at a short notice.
Strengthen India’s air defence capabilities: Others like the Akash Short Range Surface to Air Missile System are heavier with a theatre air defence umbrella of up to 25 km and can be deployed further away from the LAC for static formations.
Overall, the VSHORAD will be the best option for mountain warfare.