India Successfully Tests Multi-Layered Air Defence System With Laser Weapon

India on Sunday carried out the first flight trials of its Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), adding a decisive layer to its defence shield just months after Operation Sindoor.

The tests, held off the coast of Odisha, showcased the successful integration of missile systems with a high-power Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) designed to neutralise aerial threats.

The IADWS combines three key elements. These include the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and the newly developed laser-based Directed Energy Weapon.

Together, these provide a multi-layered defence architecture, capable of engaging hostile aircraft, drones and missiles across varied altitudes.

Defence officials said the trials reflected India’s growing technological maturity. They noted that the country is building an integrated network of radars, sensors, and command systems.

Additionally, they added that the system can detect, track, and destroy threats in real time.

The Ministry of Defence stated that the system tested three aerial targets. Two high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles and a multi-copter drone.

The QRSAM, VSHORADS and DEW destroyed all the targets at different ranges.

The ministry confirmed that every subsystem, from missile launchers to detection radars and communication networks, functioned seamlessly. Flight data recorded by the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur validated the successful outcomes.

Indigenous Innovation at Work

The Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) developed the Centralised Command and Control Centre, which controls the integrated operation.

The Research Centre Imarat developed the VSHORADS, and the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) developed the laser-based DEW.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO, armed forces and industry partners, calling the achievement a landmark.

“This unique trial has demonstrated India’s layered air defence capability and will further safeguard vital installations against aerial threats,” he said.

The trials underscore India’s progress in Atmanirbhar Bharat, reducing dependence on imported defence systems.

India is incorporating advanced missile systems and directed energy weapons into a unified platform. By doing so, the country is positioning itself among a select group of nations with next-generation air defence technologies.