DRDO conducts consecutive successful flight tests of VSHORADS short-range missile system

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted two consecutive successful flight tests of the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha on Tuesday (March 14, 2023).

The indigenously designed and developed missile is meant for neutralizing low altitude aerial threats at short ranges.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the flight tests were carried out from a ground-based man portable launcher against high speed unmanned aerial targets, mimicking approaching and receding aircraft. The targets were successfully intercepted, meeting all mission objectives.

The DRDO had also conducted two successful test flights of the VSHORADS missile from a ground based portable launcher at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur on September 27, 2022.

The missile incorporates many novel technologies including Dual-band IIR Seeker, miniaturised Reaction Control System and integrated avionics, which have been successfully proven during the tests. The propulsion is provided by a dual thrust solid motor.

The design of the missile including launcher has been highly optimized to ensure easy portability.

The missile has been designed and developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian Industry Partners.

Complimenting DRDO and industry partners on the successful flight test, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the missile equipped with novel technologies will give further technological boost to the Armed Forces.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Samir V Kamat also congratulated the teams associated with the consecutive successful flight tests.