Indian Army Gears Up for Next-Gen Air Defence with Indigenous QR-SAM

National News: India's air security is soon going to touch a new height. The Indian Army is soon going to get a powerful and fully indigenous missile system, QR-SAM, which will be able to destroy enemy aircraft, drones, and helicopters on the battlefield within a radius of 30 km. The Ministry of Defense is on the verge of approving a ₹30,000 crore deal to procure three regiments of this cutting-edge defense system.

What is QR-SAM?

QR-SAM, i.e., Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile System, is a mobile, multi-target, and fully automatic air defense system. It has been developed in India by DRDO and the Indian Army. This missile system has been designed to provide immediate protection from air attacks to the advancing troops in the battlefield. QR-SAM can be launched from any mobile vehicle, truck, or bunker.

Operation 'Sindoor' showed its need

Recently, the Indian Air Defense performed brilliantly in thwarting drone and missile threats from the Pakistani border. During Operation Sindoor, the importance of quick reaction systems like QR-SAM in preventing enemy attacks in multiple layers came to the fore, after which its procurement process was expedited.

Many successful tests in three years

Over the past three to four years, DRDO and the Indian Army have successfully conducted multiple tests of the QR-SAM system.  This system can simultaneously identify multiple air targets and attack them in seconds. Its firepower, speed, and accuracy make it a valuable link in the current air defense network.

Army needs 11 regiments, starting with three

The Air Defense Branch (AAD) of the Indian Army needs a total of 11 regiments of QR-SAM. Initially, emphasis is being laid on the purchase of three regiments, which in the future, along with the 'Akash' system, will strengthen India's multilayer air defense network.

What will be the benefit?

The deployment of QR-SAM will provide real-time air security to both the Indian Army and the Air Force. It will not only thwart enemy air attacks but can also give India a decisive edge in the early stages of the war. It will also strengthen India's 'Atmanirbhar Defense Campaign.'