Why in news?
Defence analysts discussed India’s progress on the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System in August 2025 after reports of a successful test off the Odisha coast. The system, part of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, aims to create a multi‑layered shield against aerial threats.
Overview of the system
IADWS is envisioned as a network‑centric architecture that integrates existing and new weapons to protect high‑value targets. Its components include:
- Quick Reaction Surface‑to‑Air Missiles (QRSAM): These mobile missiles can engage aircraft, helicopters and cruise missiles at short ranges.
- Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS): Man‑portable missiles and guns provide the last layer of defence against drones and low‑flying aircraft.
- Directed energy weapons: Lasers and microwave systems are being developed to neutralise swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles.
- Integrated command and control: Radar, electro‑optic sensors and data links fuse information to assign the right weapon to each incoming target.
Objectives and significance
The goal of Mission Sudarshan Chakra is to build an indigenous air‑defence network comparable to Israel’s Iron Dome. IADWS will protect cities, airbases and critical infrastructure from hostile aircraft, missiles and drones. It reduces reliance on imported systems and encourages synergy between the Army, Air Force and Navy. As modern warfare increasingly involves swarms and precision‑guided munitions, such layered defence is vital.