Indian Army Tests Strela-10 in Rajasthan: What the VSHORADS Firing Means for India’s Air Defence Readiness (UPSC)
The Indian Army’s Konark Corps has successfully test-fired the Strela-10 Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan, achieving direct hits on simulated aerial targets. The trial underscores India’s focus on strengthening low-altitude air defence against evolving threats like drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft.
What happened at Pokhran?
As per the report, the Air Defence Warriors of the Blazing Skies Brigade under the Konark Corps conducted a high-intensity live firing exercise of the Strela-10 VSHORADS in Rajasthan’s desert sector at Pokhran. The drill demonstrated operational precision and combat readiness, with the missile system registering direct hits on simulated enemy targets in challenging desert conditions.
Officials cited the purpose of the exercise as validating firing standards, improving crew coordination, and testing engagement protocols under realistic battlefield conditions, including integration among surveillance, target acquisition, and missile deployment units.
Strela-10: key features in simple terms
The Strela-10 is a short-range surface-to-air missile system designed primarily to counter low-altitude aerial threats. In the Pokhran test, it was launched from a BMP-based mobile platform and was described as having an effective engagement range of about 6–10 km.
A notable operational aspect is that the Strela-10 relies significantly on visual target acquisition rather than being purely radar-dependent, which makes crew training and situational awareness central to effectiveness.
Why this matters
1) Air defence is shifting toward counter-drone readiness
The report notes that beyond aircraft and helicopters, systems like Strela-10 are increasingly relevant against drones—an expanding challenge in modern warfare. This aligns with the broader trend where low-cost aerial threats demand layered and mobile air defence at the tactical level.
2) Mobility + quick reaction at the tactical edge
Because the Strela-10 is mounted on a mobile platform, it can move with mechanised formations and provide point/area defence in forward areas—important in fast-moving battlefield scenarios. Exercises at ranges like Pokhran help ensure systems and crews remain mission-ready in demanding terrain and climate conditions.
3) Parallel push for indigenisation
The same report also points out that while Strela-10 remains in active service, India is advancing an indigenous VSHORADS with an approximate 6 km engagement range. Separately, DRDO has reported successful flight-tests of an indigenously developed, man-portable VSHORADS at Pokhran in October 2024, aimed at strengthening capability against aerial threats.
FAQs
Q1. Where was the Strela-10 tested by the Indian Army?
It was tested at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan’s desert sector.
Q2. Which formation conducted the Strela-10 firing?
The Air Defence Warriors of the Blazing Skies Brigade under the Indian Army’s Konark Corps conducted the test firing.
Q3. What type of air defence system is Strela-10?
Strela-10 is a Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) used to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats.
Q4. What was the reported engagement range during the test?
The report states an effective engagement range of approximately 6–10 km.
Q5. Why are such tests conducted regularly?
They help validate firing standards, sharpen crew coordination, test engagement protocols, and maintain operational preparedness in strategically significant sectors.
Q6. Is India developing indigenous VSHORADS capabilities?
Yes—India is advancing indigenous VSHORADS, and DRDO has reported successful flight-tests of an indigenous man-portable VSHORADS at Pokhran in October 2024.
