In a major milestone for India’s defence preparedness, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off the coast of Odisha.
The IADWS, developed entirely through indigenous efforts, is a multi-layered air defence solution comprising:
- Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAMs)
- Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missiles
- A high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW)
The successful test marks a significant leap in India’s ability to protect strategic and high-value installations against various enemy aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and missiles.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO, the Indian Armed Forces, and the defence industry on the accomplishment.
“This unique flight test has established the multi-layered air-defence capability of our country and is going to strengthen area defence for important facilities against enemy aerial threats,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
This success comes shortly after the test-firing of the Agni-5 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile from ITR Chandipur, Odisha on August 20, under the Strategic Forces Command. That test also validated all technical and operational parameters.
These back-to-back tests highlight India’s growing prowess in strategic deterrence and indigenous defence innovation.
