The Indian Army is actively pursuing two critical projects aimed at enhancing the country's defense capabilities against potential threats from enemy drones and fighter jets along the borders with China and Pakistan. These initiatives focus on the development of indigenous shoulder-fired air defense missile systems, aiming to provide 350 launchers and approximately 2,000 missiles to troops from both the Army and Air Force.
The first project centers on the creation of a highly effective laser beam riding Very Short Range Air Defense System (VSHORADS) in collaboration with a defense Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) based in Hyderabad and a private sector company from Maharashtra. Both entities have received orders to develop prototypes domestically, signaling a significant stride toward self-reliance in defense technology. Defense officials are optimistic about the progress made so far, deeming it highly encouraging.
The second project, undertaken by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in collaboration with selected partners such as Adani Defense and I-Comm Engineering Limited, focuses on adapting a system initially designed for targeting airborne threats into a shoulder-launched missile system for soldiers.
Efforts to develop indigenous shoulder-fired missile systems date back to 2009, aimed at replacing and augmenting the existing inventory, primarily comprising Russian Igla-1M missiles. Previous attempts, including procurement from Russia, faced setbacks, leading to their discontinuation. However, plans are underway to revive the project under the Make in India initiative.
While Indian forces have received over 48 launchers from Russia under emergency procurement measures, with additional launchers expected in the future, the overall demand exceeds 500 launchers. This underscores the urgency and significance of indigenous development initiatives in bolstering India's defense capabilities.
