In a significant move to enhance its air defence capabilities, the Indian Army has received a new consignment of Russian-origin Igla-S Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS). The delivery comes at a crucial time as tensions persist along the borders, particularly in the aftermath of the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to defence sources, the newly acquired batch of Igla-S missiles was delivered a few weeks ago under a contract worth approximately ₹260 crore. The deal was signed through emergency procurement powers granted by the central government, allowing the Army to fast-track critical purchases amid operational exigencies.
These man-portable, shoulder-fired missiles are being swiftly deployed to frontline formations along the western sector to strengthen India’s defences against aerial threats, including enemy fighter jets, attack helicopters, and increasingly, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) such as drones. The missiles, which operate using infrared (IR) targeting technology, play a pivotal role in protecting troops and infrastructure from low-flying aerial intrusions.
The Indian Air Force is also pursuing similar contracts to acquire the IR-based VSHORADS systems for its air defence units, further enhancing the military’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to aerial threats at short range.
In addition to the recent delivery, the Indian Army has floated a fresh tender for the procurement of 48 additional launchers and around 90 more Igla-S missiles under the fast-track procurement procedure. The Army is also exploring newer technologies, including laser beam-riding versions of VSHORADS, to keep pace with evolving aerial threat landscapes.
The Igla-S is an upgraded version of the legacy Igla MANPADS (Man-Portable Air Defence Systems), which have been part of India’s air defence arsenal since the 1990s. While the older models continue to be in service, several have recently been refurbished by Indian defence firms, showcasing growing indigenous support capabilities.
The need for advanced air defence systems has become more urgent as the Indian Army faces increasing use of drones by adversaries, particularly from across the Pakistan border. These UAVs are often used for surveillance, smuggling, and potential attacks, requiring the deployment of sophisticated countermeasures.
To address this, the Army has deployed the Mark 1 version of the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDD&IS) in forward areas. These systems, capable of detecting, jamming, spoofing, and destroying drones from over 8 kilometers away, have been successfully used to neutralize Pakistani drones in the Jammu region.
The IDD&IS units are equipped with laser-based weapons that can burn down hostile drones mid-air. One such drone was recently intercepted and destroyed opposite the 16 Corps area, highlighting the effectiveness of India’s layered air defence systems.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is also contributing to the effort with the development of high-power directed energy weapons. These systems are designed to neutralize a range of airborne threats, including larger drones, cruise missiles, and even aircraft, offering a futuristic edge to India’s defence posture.
Furthermore, the Indian Army is working to acquire low-level, transportable radar systems to enable faster detection and response to aerial threats at lower altitudes. These radars will form a critical part of the integrated air defence ecosystem, ensuring a quicker kill chain against low-flying hostile targets.
The recent procurement and deployment efforts reflect a strategic shift toward preparing for modern aerial warfare, with an emphasis on mobility, precision, and rapid response—essential qualities in the face of emerging asymmetric threats.