The Indian Army has issued a tender for VSHORAD systems to counter low-altitude threats like drones and helicopters, enhancing tactical air defence and readiness.

Army Seeks  Vshorad For Tactical  Shield

The primary objective of this strategic procurement is to effectively neutralize low altitude aerial threats posed by hostile aircraft, helicopters and increasingly, unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Indian Army has issued a tender for new very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) systems.

Their characteristics includes :- 

• These systems are meant to strengthen the Army’s tactical air defence shield.

• The goal is to protect troops and key assets from low-flying aerial threats like drones, helicopters, and aircraft.

• The move is part of India’s efforts to modernize its defence system and improve readiness for close-range air threats

• The tender invites global and domestic defence companies to participate under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category, encouraging local production.

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been instrumental in this initiative, having successfully conducted field trials of the indigenously developed VSHORADS systems in October 2024 at Pokhran, Rajasthan. During these trials, the system showcased impressive hit-to-kill capabilities.

• The VSHORADS are designed to offer quick- reaction- capability,which allows troops to neutralize threats at short notice. 

• This will be very useful in modern asymmetric and drone- heavy combat conditions.

•  This acquisition is a major step forward in replacing older systems with new-generation platforms.  

Through this new tender, the Indian Army aims to accelerate the development of VSHORADS, thereby enhancing frontline readiness and safeguarding critical assets and installations in a region that is increasingly characterized by volatility