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Defence

TUNGUSKA AIR DEFENCE MISSILE SYSTEM

 India signed a contract with Russia for the procurement of the Tunguska Air Defence Missile System on March 27, 2026

Purpose: To provide the Indian Army with a mobile, short-range air defence (SHORAD) capability to protect ground forces from low-flying threats such as drones, helicopters, and cruise missiles.

VSHORADS (VERY SHORT RANGE AIR DEFENCE SYSTEM)

The recent successful trials of the VSHORADS (Very Short Range Air Defence System) represent a major leap in India's "last-mile" air defense.

DRDO’S Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) | Defence Dynamics

 

In 2026, DRDO conducted three consecutive flight trials from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.

 

Technical Capabilities & Features

Indigenous Development:

Designed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, in collaboration with other DRDO labs and industry partners.

Operational Range:

 Capable of intercepting high-speed aerial threats at a range of up to 6–8 km and altitudes of 3.5–4.5 km.

Advanced Guidance:

Equipped with a Dual-band Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker, which allows the missile to distinguish between actual targets and enemy decoys (flares).

Maneuverability:

Features a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) and dual-thrust solid motor for high agility during terminal engagement.

Man-Portable (MANPADS):

A lightweight, shoulder-fired system designed for rapid deployment by individual soldiers or small teams.

 

Strategic Significance

  • Multi-Service Utility: Engineered to meet the immediate air defense requirements of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
  • Replacement of Aging Systems: Poised to replace the vintage Russian Igla-S systems, which are currently the mainstay but lack modern counter-measure capabilities.
  • Border Security: Critical for protecting troops in rugged terrains like Ladakh and Siachen, where traditional radar-based heavy systems face topographical limitations.