New Delhi, June 9 – The Indian Army is set to enhance its air defence capabilities. It is expected to receive a significant upgrade. This upgrade comes with the likely approval of a ₹30,000 crore acquisition of Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) systems. The Defence Ministry is set to review the proposal soon. This review aims to enhance preparedness along both the northern and western frontiers.
Defence Ministry to Evaluate Major Procurement
According to defence sources, the Defence Acquisition Council will meet in the fourth week of June. They will deliberate on the purchase of three QRSAM regiments. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed the indigenous missile system. It is designed for rapid mobility and also swiftly engages aerial threats. It is expected to strengthen the Army’s layered air defence network.
High Mobility and On-the-Move Engagement Capability
The QRSAM system is equipped with advanced radars and guidance technologies. These technologies allow it to detect, track, and neutralize targets while on the move. They are also effective during brief halts. It has an effective range of approximately 30 kilometres. It is designed to supplement the existing Akash and Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) systems. This offers robust defence across short-to-medium range domains.
Proven Performance in Rigorous Trials
The system has undergone extensive field testing. Defence officials stated that testing occurred under a range of operational conditions, including both day and night scenarios. These evaluations have demonstrated the system’s reliability. They have shown its responsiveness. This paves the way for its formal induction into the Army’s air defence arsenal.
Strengthening Defence Post-Operation Sindoor
The acquisition gains importance in the wake of Operation Sindoor, where Indian forces successfully intercepted Pakistani drones, aircraft, and missiles. Air defence units relied heavily on legacy systems like the L-70 and Zu-23 guns. Meanwhile, Akash and MRSAM batteries played a critical role. The Indian Air Force deployed its Spyder systems. It also used S-400 systems. These were to neutralize multiple aerial threats. Many threats were reportedly equipped with Chinese technology.
Army Expands Counter-Drone Capabilities
The Army is addressing evolving aerial challenges. Low-cost drone threats are a particular concern. To counter these, the Army is enhancing its inventory with new radars. They are also incorporating short-range air defence weapons, electronic jammers, and directed energy solutions. These systems target unmanned aerial vehicles from Turkey and China. Such drones have been increasingly observed in regional conflicts.
Indigenous Focus in Defence Modernization
The QRSAM procurement aligns with the government’s “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives. It underscores a strategic shift towards indigenous defence manufacturing. With the expected approval, the system will boost operational readiness. It will also contribute to the self-reliance of the Indian military-industrial ecosystem.
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