DRDO Successfully Tests Fourth-Generation VSHORADS Missile System

New Delhi, October 5 – The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted three flight tests of the fourth-generation Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile at the Pokhran range. This advanced air defense system is similar to Russia's S-400 and is designed to neutralize enemy aircraft, helicopters, drones, and other aerial threats without giving them a chance to escape. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and the Indian Army for the achievement, stating that this new missile, equipped with advanced technologies, will significantly enhance the capabilities of the armed forces in countering aerial threats.

The VSHORADS missile weighs 20.5 kilograms, is approximately 6.7 feet long, and has a diameter of 3.5 inches. It carries a 2-kilogram warhead and has a range of 250 meters to 6 kilometers, with a maximum altitude of 11,500 feet. The missile can travel at speeds of up to Mach 1.5, or around 1,800 kilometers per hour. Previous tests were conducted in March last year and on September 27, 2022. During the recent flight tests, the missile was launched from a ground-based, man-portable launcher and successfully intercepted high-speed aerial targets by simulating close-in and retreating aircraft scenarios, achieving all mission objectives.

According to the Ministry of Defence, this portable air defense system, known as MANPAD, has been indigenously developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI) with the support of Indian industry partners. The VSHORADS missile is powered by a dual-thrust solid motor and is designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats within a short range. The flight tests were conducted in the presence of senior officials from the Indian Army, DRDO laboratories, and the defense industry.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the efforts of DRDO, the Indian Army, and industry partners involved in the successful test. He emphasized that this advanced missile system will further equip India’s armed forces with cutting-edge technology. The Secretary of Defence Research and Development and Chairman of DRDO also congratulated the team involved in the missile’s design and development.