Successful Flight Trials of VSHORADS Missile System Conducted Near Odisha Coast

The Ministry of Defence has announced the successful completion of three flight tests for the VSHORADS missile system near the Odisha coast. These trials were conducted to validate the system's effectiveness against high-speed aerial threats. The VSHORADS, a man-portable air defense system, is designed to intercept various aerial targets and has been developed using indigenous technology. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the achievement and indicated that the system could soon be integrated into the armed forces. The tests confirmed the missile's capabilities through advanced tracking and telemetry systems, marking a significant milestone in India's defense technology.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 28, 2026, 08:40 IST

Successful Flight Tests of VSHORADS

Three successful flight tests of the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) were conducted near Chandipur, close to the Odisha coast, as announced by the Ministry of Defence on Friday. These tests aimed to validate the missile system's ability to neutralize high-speed threats at various speeds, distances, and altitudes.

Rapid Response Against Enemy Aircraft

According to the Ministry of Defence, these trials were designed to reaffirm the capabilities of the VSHORADS missile system. This system is engineered to counter high-speed threats flying at different speeds, ranges, and altitudes.

Precision Targeting Achieved

Accurate Targeting: During the tests, the missiles successfully intercepted and destroyed high-speed aerial targets simulating enemy aircraft.

Final Configuration Testing

Final Configuration Testing: The trials were conducted in the final deployment configuration intended for military use, with target acquisition and missile launch executed directly by field operators.

Features of VSHORADS

Portable System: This is a man-portable air defense system (MANPADS) that can be easily transported by soldiers from one location to another.

Indigenous Technology: Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with various labs and Indian industry partners, it showcases indigenous technology.

Multi-Dimensional Security: The system is capable of destroying low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones.

Accurate Data: Telemetry, electro-optical tracking systems, and radar deployed at the Chandipur range confirmed the missile's effectiveness during the tests.

Official Statements and Future Prospects

The Ministry stated, "Throughout all flight tests, the missiles intercepted and destroyed high-speed aerial targets mimicking enemy aircraft under various threat scenarios, successfully completing all extreme engagement points." Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO, armed forces, and industry for the successful flight tests of the missile system.

He noted that the three consecutive flight trials of VSHORADS represent a significant achievement, and the system is expected to be inducted into the armed forces soon.

The ministry added, "Flight data captured by various range instruments, including telemetry, electro-optical tracking systems, and radar deployed at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, validated the effectiveness of VSHORADS against a variety of aerial threats."

These user validation flight trials were conducted in the presence of representatives from the armed forces, as well as senior officials from DRDO and development partners.