India examines-fires multi-layered air defense system

(MENAFN) India has conducted successful trials of a new integrated air defense system, intercepting and destroying three targets at different altitudes and ranges, the Defense Ministry announced on Sunday.

The tests follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of a decade-long plan to develop a domestically built air defense network, under the “Mission Sudarshan Chakra” initiative, aimed at protecting both military and civilian assets.

During the trials, the system simultaneously engaged and neutralized two high-speed fixed-wing drones and a multi-copter UAV using QRSAM (Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile), VSHORADS (Very Short Range Air Defense System), and a high-energy laser weapon system at various ranges and heights, the ministry said.

The integrated system, which combines missile defenses, drone detection and neutralization capabilities, command and control units, and radar and communication networks, reportedly performed flawlessly.

Earlier this month, India approved $7.6 billion in defense acquisitions to strengthen its armed forces, including additional BrahMos missiles, armed drones, and modernization of key platforms. The Defense Acquisition Council also approved long-term support for existing critical systems, including Boeing aircraft and the S-400 air defense missile system.

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