What is Igla-S?

About Igla-S: 

• It is a man-portable air defence system (MANPADS) developed by Russia.
• Capabilities:
  • It is a hand-held defence system that can be operated by an individual or crew.
  • It is designed to bring down low-flying aircraft and can also identify and neutralise air targets such as cruise missiles and drones.
• It comprises the 9M342 missile, the 9P522 launching mechanism, the 9V866-2 mobile test station, and the 9F719-2 test set. These components work together to provide a comprehensive air defence solution.
• A VSHORAD is the soldier’s last line of defence against enemy combat aircraft, helicopters and UAVs in the multilayered air defence network.
• Range: It has a range of 500 metres to 6 kilometres and attack targets up to an altitude of 3.5 kilometres. The speed of the missile is 400 metres per second and the deployment time is 13 seconds.
• Significance: The acquisition of the Igla-S MANPADS marks a significant step in enhancing India's air defence capabilities, particularly in mountainous regions.

Q1: What is a Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missile system?

VSHORAD missile system is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) specially designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats over short distances. These are short-range, lightweight, and portable surface-to-air missiles that can be fired by individuals or small groups.

Source: Army set to receive Igla-S air defence systems partly assembled in India