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IA Inducts New Batch of Russian-made ‘Igla-S’ Shoulder-Launched Air Defence Missiles.

Defence | Dated: 08 May 2025

In May 2025, the Indian Army (IA) received a fresh batch of Russian-origin ‘Igla-S’ missiles, which are portable, shoulder-fired air defence weapons. These systems are specifically designed to neutralize low-flying aerial threats such as helicopters, UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), and low-speed aircraft, particularly in forward areas and mountainous terrain.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - These missiles have been procured under an emergency procurement contract worth Rs 260 crore, approved by the Government of India (GoI).
  • - In addition to the missiles, the Ministry of Defence (MoD), in collaboration with the Indian Army, has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to acquire 48 launchers, 48 night vision sights, 85 missiles, and one missile test station under the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS)–Next Generation (NG) project.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) The Igla-S man-portable air defence systems were assembled in India by Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL), based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
  • (ii) Igla-S is an upgraded version of the older Igla missiles, which have been part of India's defence since the 1990s.
  • (iii) This enhanced version provides greater resistance to countermeasures and improved seeker accuracy, with the capability to engage targets up to 6 km away and at altitudes of up to 3.5 km.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

The Indian Army has recently inducted which Russian-origin shoulder-fired air defence missile system?

Correct Answer: Igla-S

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Indian Army (IA)

  • Chief of the Army Staff (COAS): General Upendra Dwivedi
  • Headquarters: New Delhi