'Multi-layered shield': DRDO successfully conducts maiden flight tests of IADWS

Premier Defence Research agency DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) has conducted the maiden flight tests of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off the coast of Odisha. The flight tests were conducted on August 23 at around 12.30 pm. IADWS is a multi-layered air defence system comprising all indigenous Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM), Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missiles and a high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW). Integrated operation of all the weapon system components is controlled by a Centralised Command and Control Centre developed by Defence Research & Development Laboratory, which is the nodal laboratory of the programme. VSHORADS and DEW are developed by the Research Centre Imarat & Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences, respectively.