Daily Current Affairs : 7-October-2024
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed three flight tests of the fourth-generation miniaturized Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS). These tests were conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan, marking an important milestone in India’s air defence capabilities. This new system is designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats such as helicopters and low-flying aircraft, providing a vital layer of protection in modern warfare.
Key Features of the VSHORADS
The VSHORADS is a Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD), meaning it is lightweight and can be carried and operated by a single soldier. It has been developed indigenously by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad, in collaboration with several other DRDO labs and industry partners. Some of its key features include:
- Range: The system can engage targets at a distance of up to 6 km, making it effective against a range of aerial threats.
- Dual-Band IIR Seeker: This advanced tracking technology ensures that the missile can precisely target and lock onto enemy aircraft, even under difficult conditions.
- Miniaturized Reaction Control System: This enhances the missile’s ability to maneuver and intercept targets swiftly and accurately.
- Dual-Thrust Solid Motor: This provides fast propulsion, enabling rapid interception of high-speed aerial targets.
- Portability: Its lightweight design ensures that it can be quickly deployed, even in difficult terrains.
Operational and Developmental Success
During the flight tests, the VSHORADS demonstrated a hit-to-kill capability, successfully intercepting high-speed targets in multiple scenarios such as approaching, receding, and crossing targets. The missile system has been proven to operate effectively in various conditions, showing its versatility and reliability in real-world combat situations.
Future Prospects
With the completion of these successful trials, the production agencies are now engaged in preparing the system for early user trials and eventual mass production. This marks an important step towards enhancing India’s defence capabilities, ensuring greater security against aerial threats. The VSHORADS system is set to play a crucial role in India’s defence strategy in the coming years.
Important Points:
Successful Flight Tests: DRDO conducted three successful flight tests of the fourth-generation miniaturized Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at Pokhran, Rajasthan.
System Type: The VSHORADS is a Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats like helicopters and low-flying aircraft.
Indigenous Development: The system was indigenously developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, in collaboration with other DRDO labs and industry partners.
Target Engagement Range: VSHORADS can engage targets up to 6 km away.
Advanced Technologies:
- Dual-band IIR Seeker: Ensures precise tracking and targeting of aerial threats.
- Miniaturized Reaction Control System: Enhances missile maneuverability for accurate interception.
- Dual-thrust Solid Motor: Provides fast propulsion for rapid response.
- Integrated Avionics: Supports advanced targeting and control systems.
Portability: The system is lightweight and portable, allowing for quick deployment in difficult terrains.
Operational Capability: Successfully demonstrated hit-to-kill capability against high-speed targets in multiple scenarios (approaching, receding, and crossing).
Development Status: After successful trials, production agencies are now preparing for early user trials and mass production.
Strategic Importance: The system strengthens India’s air defence by providing a reliable solution for low-altitude aerial threats, boosting self-reliance in defence technology.
Why In News
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted three flight tests of the fourth-generation miniaturized Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan, marking a significant achievement in enhancing India’s air defence capabilities. These tests demonstrate the system’s reliability and readiness for operational deployment.
MCQs about DRDO’s Success in Testing the VSHORADS System
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What is the primary purpose of the VSHORADS developed by DRDO?
A. To target long-range missiles
B. To counter low-altitude aerial threats
C. To improve naval defence systems
D. To enhance satellite surveillance
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Which of the following is a key feature of the VSHORADS missile system?
A. It has a range of up to 50 km.
B. It uses a dual-band IIR seeker for precise targeting.
C. It is designed for naval warfare.
D. It has a nuclear payload.
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Where were the successful flight tests of the VSHORADS conducted?
A. Bangalore
B. Pokhran Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan
C. Leh, Jammu & Kashmir
D. New Delhi
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What is the next step after the successful trials of the VSHORADS?
A. It will be tested by international forces.
B. Production agencies will prepare for early user trials and mass production.
C. The system will be used in space missions.
D. The system will undergo testing in Arctic conditions.
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