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Context

• The Indian defense establishment is taking significant strides to enhance its air defense capabilities through the procurement of 30 units of the indigenous Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system.
• This marks a transition from the prototype stage to full-fledged industrial production, reflecting India's pursuit of self-reliance in defense technology.

Details

Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) Policy

• The procurement of VSHORAD missiles falls under the Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) policy, a strategic approach devised by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
• Under this policy, DRDO leads the design phase and provides technical specifications to private or public sector industries for prototype development.

Advanced Technology for Short-Range Aerial Threats

• The VSHORAD missile system is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats over short distances.
• It incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, which have demonstrated exceptional performance during testing.

Key Features of VSHORAD

• Dual-Thrust Solid Motor: The missile is powered by a dual-thrust solid motor, ensuring remarkable agility and precision when targeting airborne threats.
• Optimized Design: The missile's entire design, including its launcher, has been meticulously optimized for ease of portability, a crucial element for effective deployment in various scenarios.

Strengthening India's Air Defense

• The procurement tender for VSHORAD missiles represents a significant milestone in India's efforts to bolster its air defense capabilities, particularly against short-range aerial threats.
• This underscores India's commitment to self-sufficiency in defense technology, reducing reliance on foreign imports and enhancing its security infrastructure.

Usage in the Indian Army

• VSHORAD missile systems are primarily used by the Indian Army to provide short-range air defense capabilities.
• These systems protect ground forces and critical assets from aerial threats, including helicopters and low-flying aircraft.

Conclusion

As India continues to invest in indigenous defense projects, it solidifies its position as a regional powerhouse with the capacity to safeguard its airspace effectively. The VSHORAD missile system represents another stride towards a more secure and self-reliant India on the global stage.

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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.   What does VSHORAD stand for in the context of Indian defense? A) Very Short-Range Air Deployment B) Versatile Short-Range Attack Device C) Very Short-Range Air Defence D) Vigilant Shield for Homeland Airspace Answer: C)