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VERY SHORT-RANGE AIR DEFENCE SYSTEM (VSHORADS)

VERY SHORT-RANGE AIR DEFENCE SYSTEM (VSHORADS)

Why in News?

Recently, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted two successful test flight of Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile.

Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed and developed indigenously by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian Industry Partners.

Design:

• VSHORADS missile incorporates many novel technologies including miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, which have been successfully proven during the tests.
• The missile, meant for neutralizing low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges, is propelled by a dual thrust solid motor.
• The design of the missile including launcher has been highly optimized to ensure easy portability.

Reaction Control System

• A Reaction Control System (RCS) is responsible for attitude control and steering by the use of thrusters.
• The RCS system is capable of providing small amounts of thrust in any desired direction or combination of directions.
• An RCS is also capable of providing torque to allow control of rotation (pitch, yaw, and roll).

MANPADS

• MANPADS are short-range, lightweight and portable surface-to-air missiles that can be fired by individuals or small groups to destroy aircraft or helicopters.
• They help shield troops from aerial attacks and are most effective in targeting low-flying aircraft.
• MANPATs or Man-Portable Anti-Tank Systems work in a similar manner but are used to destroy or incapacitate military tanks.
• MANPADS have a maximum range of 8 kilometers and can engage targets at altitudes of 4.5 km.
• The first MANPADS were introduced by the United States and Soviet Union in the 1960s.