(MENAFN- KNN India) Bhubaneswar, Aug 25 (KNN) The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the maiden flight test of its Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) on August 23, 2025.

The test was carried out around 12:30 PM over the coast of Odisha, marking a major step in strengthening India's multi-layered air defence capability.

The IADWS is a fully indigenous system designed to counter multiple types of aerial threats. It integrates three major technologies - the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM), the Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and a high-energy, laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW).

Together, these components create a comprehensive shield against enemy aircraft, drones, and other airborne threats.

During the test, two high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles and a multi-copter drone were simultaneously tracked and destroyed at different ranges and altitudes. The QRSAM, VSHORADS, and DEW were used in coordination, showcasing India's capability to neutralise diverse aerial targets.

Supporting systems such as radars, command and control units, communication links, and drone detection technologies also performed as expected. Data was collected and verified by the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the armed forces, and industry partners for the achievement. He said the successful test demonstrates India's ability to protect critical installations and assets with advanced indigenous technologies.

Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also lauded the efforts of the teams involved in the project.

This successful trial strengthens India's defence preparedness and signals progress towards developing state-of-the-art systems capable of handling evolving aerial threats.

(KNN Bureau)

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