Current Affair 1:

News:

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted three flight-tests of the 4th Generation, technically-advanced miniaturized Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan on October 03 & 04, 2024.

VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence System designed and developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories.

Why Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) is important?

It provides a last line of defense against aerial threats at close ranges.

Its importance in the context of India's defense can be understood through several key factors:

1. Defense Against Low-Flying Aerial Threats

VSHORADS are designed to detect, track, and neutralize low-flying targets such as aircraft, helicopters, drones, and even cruise missiles.

This is particularly crucial because many modern aerial threats like drones and attack helicopters operate at low altitudes to avoid detection by larger radar systems.

1. Protection of Troops and Strategic Locations

They provide close-range protection for troops during combat or while moving in vulnerable areas, particularly where other air defense assets like medium-range missiles cannot provide coverage.

For example, in border areas with Pakistan and China, where threats from drones or helicopters could emerge, VSHORADS offers a vital defense layer.

1. Mobility and Quick Deployment

VSHORADS systems are designed to be man-portable or mounted on light vehicles, allowing for rapid mobility and deployment in various terrains.

They are easy to set up, making them ideal for quick reaction forces and mobile defense units during sudden threats or skirmishes.

1. Cost-Effective Air Defense Solution

Compared to medium- and long-range air defense systems, VSHORADS are relatively cost-effective and easier to produce in large quantities.

It allows for the defense of several smaller strategic points without needing to rely solely on expensive, long-range systems.

1. Enhancing India's Indigenous Defense Capabilities

India has been focusing on indigenously developing its VSHORADS systems through DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation). This aligns with India's self-reliance goals under the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" initiative.

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