India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight trials of the Very Short Range Air Defence System (V‑SHORADS) at a test range in Odisha. The tests were carried out in real‑world conditions and met all mission objectives, marking an important step toward induction of the missile into the Indian Army. V‑SHORADS is a man‑portable, short‑range air‑defence missile developed to destroy low‑altitude aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, helicopters, and drones at ranges of around 6 km. The system is designed to be lightweight, easy to carry, and quick to deploy, making it suitable for frontline troops in mountainous and rough terrain.
The missile uses an advanced imaging infrared (IIR) seeker that can lock‑on to targets before launch, giving it high accuracy even in cluttered backgrounds. During the trials, it intercepted multiple targets at different altitudes and ranges, validating its ability to track and destroy fast‑moving aerial threats. DRDO officials confirmed that the launch tubes, command units, and guidance chain performed as expected.
Once inducted, V‑SHORADS will boost India’s close‑range air‑defence capability, especially along the northern borders and in high‑altitude areas. The system is also being evaluated for export potential, as many countries seek affordable, shoulder‑fired air‑defence weapons. DRDO plans further trials and user evaluations before handing over the system to the armed forces for operational deployment.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
Q1. What is the full form of V‑SHORADS?
V‑SHORADS stands for Very Short Range Air Defence System, a portable missile to destroy low‑altitude aircraft and drones.
Q2. What is the approximate range of the V‑SHORADS missile?
The missile has a range of about 6 km, effective against low‑flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones.
Q3. Where were the latest V‑SHORADS flight trials conducted?
The trials were held at a DRDO test range on the Odisha coast under realistic battlefield‑like conditions.
Q4. Why is V‑SHORADS important for Indian forces?
It gives soldiers a lightweight, quick‑to‑deploy air‑defence weapon to protect frontline troops from close‑range aerial threats.