In a noteworthy enhancement to India’s defence capabilities, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted a flight test of the indigenously developed Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) on Wednesday at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. The missile, fired from a land-based vertical launcher, successfully intercepted and destroyed a high-speed aerial target at close range and low altitude. This demonstrated its agility, precision and reliability while also validating its Near-Boundary-Low Altitude capability, the Ministry of Defence stated.

The test was carried out with the missile system in full combat mode, including the indigenous Radio Frequency seeker, Multi-Function Radar, and Weapon Control System, all functioning as expected. Flight data from range instruments developed by ITR Chandipur confirmed its performance. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the successful test, stating that the missile system would vastly improve the Indian Navy’s operational strength. DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat also acknowledged the technological advancements, highlighting their role in bolstering the armed forces' defence capabilities.

In a different statement, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced signing contracts worth ₹6,900 crore with Bharat Forge Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited to procure 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) and High Mobility Vehicle 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles. This marks the first superior artillery acquisition from the private sector, supporting the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

India's military is significantly upgrading, thanks to new contracts signed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The Indian Army's artillery regiments are set to receive a significant boost with the introduction of the 155mm/52 Calibre ATAGS, a cutting-edge artillery system renowned for its impressive long-range precision. This new technology will replace outdated artillery systems, substantially enhancing the Army's firepower. Moreover, this project is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the domestic defence manufacturing sector, creating jobs and driving economic growth as part of the Make in India initiative.

According to the statement, with this agreement, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has finalised capital procurement contracts worth ₹1.40 lakh crore for the 2024-25 financial year.