Quick Response Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) will soon be inducted into the Indian Armed Forces, further strengthening the air defence system.
QRSAM Air Defence System: Recent conflicts across the world have shown us that conventional war has changed drastically with new and advanced threats. Dangerous weapons such as suicide drones, precision missiles, and deadly fighter jets are capable of destroying their targets in no time. The technology used in weapons to deal with these threats has also improved. A powerful air defence system is capable of eliminating these threats within seconds. The Iran-Israel conflict has shown us the importance of air defence systems to safeguard military bases and cities. The Indian Army has short-, medium-, and long-range missile air defence systems, which can easily destroy enemy aircraft, helicopters, and drones approaching the Indian border. One more member is going to be added to this family of air defence systems. The DAC, headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, recently approved the proposal to add the Quick Response Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) to the Indian Defence Forces. The total cost of this project is said to be around Rs 33,000 crore.
How Can QRSAM Provide Protection During Ground Attack?
QRSAM is usually used during ground attacks in enemy territory. Whenever Indian tanks enter enemy territory, QRSAMs will also move along. If enemy tries air attack on Indian tanks, they will be stopped by QRSAM. It is developed by DRDO and its missile and radars are developed by the indigenous company BEL. The vehicle on which QRSAM is set up is being made by BDL.
This surface-to-air missile system, which is mounted on an 8×8 truck chassis with six launch tubes, has 30-km range. Capable of intercepting and engaging six targets simultaneously, QRSAM features electronic countermeasures to prevent jamming. Successful testing has proved its effectiveness against various aerial threats, which includes fighter jets, attack helicopters, and precision-guided munitions.
Does India Have Other Vehicle-Based Air Defence Systems?
The Indian armed forces have been using vehicle-based air defence systems which were purchased from Russia decades ago. These include Shilka, Tungushka, Strela-10M, Osa AK and Pechora. However, these will be replaced by indigenous QRSAM.
The Pechora air defence system is deployable in both mobile and stationary forms. However, it is now outdated and is being replaced by the Akash system.
