DRDO Carries Out First Test of Indigenous Integrated Air Defence Weapon System

New Delhi, August 24, 2025 – The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the maiden trials of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off the Odisha coast on August 23 at around 12:30 PM.

The IADWS is a state-of-the-art, multi-layered defensive shield that brings together three indigenous technologies – the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), the Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and a high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW).

A centralised command and control centre, designed by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory, coordinates the functioning of the entire system. The VSHORADS and the laser weapon have been developed by the Research Centre Imarat and the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences respectively.

During the tests, the system intercepted and destroyed three separate aerial threats simultaneously – two high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and a multi-copter drone. The engagements took place at varied ranges and altitudes, showcasing the seamless integration of missile interceptors, laser weapons, radars, and communication networks. The Integrated Test Range at Chandipur confirmed the success through its tracking and monitoring systems.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement, applauding DRDO, the armed forces, and the defence industry for developing a unique layered defence capability that will enhance protection of critical assets against hostile aerial intrusions.

DRDO Chairman and Secretary of Defence R&D, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, also extended his congratulations to all the scientists and teams involved in the breakthrough.

The success of IADWS marks a major step forward in India’s efforts to build a comprehensive indigenous air defence system against evolving aerial threats.