India's Igla-S VSHORAD System

The Igla-S VSHORAD system is making headlines in India as the Indian Army prepares for its deployment. For SSC aspirants, understanding this defense development is crucial, as it ties directly into national security, international relations, and technological progress—topics that often appear in SSC exams under current affairs and general awareness sections.

What is the Igla-S VSHORAD System?

The Igla-S VSHORAD system (Very Short Range Air Defense) is a Russian-made, man-portable surface-to-air missile system (SAM system). Known by NATO as the SA-24 Grinch, it represents a major leap in short-range defense technology.

This portable air defense solution is designed to protect troops and vital infrastructure from low-altitude threats such as helicopters, drones, and enemy aircraft.

This missile system uses infrared homing technology to track and destroy targets, making it highly effective in modern combat zones. The Igla-S missile is an advanced version of the earlier Igla (SA-18), with several significant improvements.

Igla-S VSHORAD System Specifications

• Range: Up to 6,000 meters (6 km)

• Effective Target Altitude: Up to 3,500 meters

• Kill Probability: 0.7 per engagement

• Warhead: Enhanced lethality against aerial targets

• Countermeasure Resistance: High resistance to flares and thermal decoys

• Mobility: Lightweight and easy to deploy by soldiers (MANPADS)

This makes it a true, very short-range air defense missile, ideal for real-time battlefield operations.

Indian Army Igla-S Deployment: Strategic Importance

The Indian Army Igla-S deployment marks a significant shift in India’s air defense posture. With increasing drone and low-altitude aircraft threats, India needed a quick-response system. The Igla-S VSHORAD system fits this requirement perfectly.

The initial procurement includes:

• 48 launchers

• 100 Igla-S missiles

• 48 night vision devices

• Testing and maintenance stations

This move fills a major gap in India’s air defense modernization plan and complements existing long-range systems like the S-400.

Comparison: Igla-S vs Stinger Missile System

While both are MANPADS, the Igla-S missile offers a better range and higher kill probability. It's designed to engage even modern UAVs equipped with countermeasures.

Make in India Initiative & Defense Collaboration

A key part of this deal involves partial assembly in India by Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL) in collaboration with Russia's Rosoboronexport. While the main missiles are imported, India is gaining valuable know-how in defense manufacturing.

This move supports the Make in India campaign and builds India's self-reliance in the defense sector.

Payment Dispute Resolved Using National Currencies

The delivery of the Igla-S VSHORAD system was delayed due to sanctions on Russia. However, India and Russia resolved this by switching to payments in national currencies, bypassing the sanctions and allowing for seamless cooperation on this and other projects.

Enhancing Drone Defense and Surveillance

Along with the Igla-S VSHORAD system, the Indian Army is also acquiring Hermes-900 UAVs from Israel to enhance its surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. This combined approach allows the Army to detect and neutralize threats more effectively.

The Hermes-900, capable of flying at 30,000 feet with 36-hour endurance, adds another layer of depth to India’s air defense grid.

Latest Updates on Igla-S VSHORAD System India Deployment

As of mid-2025, the Igla-S VSHORAD system is expected to be operational in several forward bases. This strategic deployment will help cover key border areas where low-altitude threats are most likely. The move is also a response to increasing UAV activity along India's northern and western borders.

Why SSC Aspirants Should Remember This

• This is a current event with direct relevance to India's defense and international relations.

• Topics like India's plan for air defense modernization or the Russian-made VSHORAD system for India often appear in SSC exams.

• Learn differences such as Igla-S vs Spyder missile system or Igla-S missile vs Stinger missile for multiple-choice or match-the-following questions.

Key Takeaways for SSC Exams

• The Igla-S VSHORAD system is a man-portable SAM system from Russia.

• It improves India's defense against low-altitude threats like UAVs and helicopters.

• It is being deployed alongside Israeli-made Hermes-900 drones.

• The project involves domestic assembly under Make in India.

• Payment issues were resolved using Russian ruble transactions.

• Know comparisons: Igla-S missile vs Stinger missile, Igla-S vs Spyder.

Final Thoughts

The Igla-S VSHORAD system represents a significant leap forward in India’s efforts to modernize its air defense capabilities. Its deployment strengthens the nation’s ability to counter low-altitude threats such as drones, helicopters, and enemy aircraft with precision and speed. By integrating advanced infrared homing technology and improved warhead design, the system enhances battlefield effectiveness and survivability.

The collaboration with Russia, alongside domestic assembly initiatives, also marks a crucial step toward defense self-reliance. As aerial threats evolve, the inclusion of systems like the Igla-S ensures a more responsive and layered defense strategy.

This development underscores India’s commitment to building a robust and future-ready security framework.