Balasore, Aug 24: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday announced that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight tests of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS).
The tests were carried out on Saturday, August 23, at 12:30 p.m. off the coast of Odisha, marking a significant milestone in India’s defence capabilities.
The IADWS is a multi-layered air defence system designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats. It integrates indigenous technologies such as the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM), Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and a high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW).
The system combines radar, launchers, missiles, guidance systems, and command-and-control units to provide comprehensive protection for strategic assets against enemy aerial threats.
In a statement on ‘X’, Singh congratulated the DRDO, Armed Forces, and the defence industry, stating, "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 also highlighted the significance of the IADWS as an indigenously developed system, unlike imported alternatives, underscoring India's self-reliance in defence technology.
The successful test follows closely on the heels of another achievement in India’s missile programme. On August 20, the nuclear-capable Agni-5 intermediate-range ballistic missile was successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Odisha. This test, which validated all operational and technical parameters, demonstrated India’s growing missile capabilities.
