DRDO Proposes Zorawar-Based Self-Propelled Air Defence System
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has proposed a new air defence system for the Indian Army, built around the Zorawar light tank. This self-propelled air defence system, code-named ADGM-SP (Air Defence Gun Missile System – Self Propelled), is designed to provide air defence coverage to mechanized units and counter various aerial threats, including drones, helicopters, and aircraft.
The ADGM-SP system is expected to feature a 30mm gun and VSHORADS (Very Short Range Air Defence System) missiles, which will enable it to engage targets at ranges of up to 10 km. The system’s primary role will be to provide point air defence, protecting troops and equipment from enemy aircraft and missiles.
One of the key benefits of the ADGM-SP system is its mobility. As it is based on the Zorawar light tank, it will be able to quickly move around the battlefield, providing air defence cover to mechanized units as they advance. This will enable the Indian Army to maintain a significant advantage on the battlefield, as enemy aircraft will be unable to operate effectively in the face of a mobile and effective air defence system.
The ADGM-SP system is also designed to be highly effective against modern aerial threats, including drones and loitering munitions. These types of threats are becoming increasingly common, and traditional air defence systems may struggle to engage them effectively. The VSHORADS missiles used in the ADGM-SP system, however, are specifically designed to counter these types of threats.
A prototype of the ADGM-SP system is expected to be ready by 2026, with full production potentially starting after 2029. This timeline suggests that the system will be introduced into service over the next decade, providing the Indian Army with a significant upgrade to its air defence capabilities.
The development of the ADGM-SP system is a significant step forward for the Indian defence industry, and demonstrates the country’s ability to design and develop complex defence systems. The system’s use of the Zorawar light tank as a base platform also highlights the importance of mobility in modern warfare, and the need for air defence systems to be able to keep up with rapidly advancing mechanized units.
The ADGM-SP system is also expected to be highly effective in a variety of scenarios, including high-intensity conflicts, peacekeeping operations, and humanitarian assistance missions. Its ability to engage a wide range of aerial targets, from drones to aircraft, makes it an attractive option for a variety of military roles.
In addition to its air defence capabilities, the ADGM-SP system is also designed to be highly deployable and sustainable. It will be able to operate in a variety of environments, from the hot deserts of the Middle East to the jungles of Southeast Asia. Its mobility and sustainability make it an ideal option for peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance missions, where rapid deployment and high availability are critical.
The development of the ADGM-SP system is also likely to have a significant impact on the global defence market. As one of the largest defence markets in the world, India is likely to be a major customer for the system, and other countries may also be interested in acquiring the technology. This could lead to a significant increase in demand for the system, and potentially generate significant revenue for the Indian defence industry.
In conclusion, the proposed ADGM-SP system is a significant development for the Indian defence industry, and is likely to provide the Indian Army with a significant upgrade to its air defence capabilities. Its use of the Zorawar light tank as a base platform, combined with its highly effective air defence capabilities, make it an attractive option for a variety of military roles. The system’s mobility and sustainability also make it an ideal option for peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance missions.
As the system moves towards production, it is likely to have a significant impact on the global defence market. With its ability to engage a wide range of aerial targets, and its high degree of mobility and sustainability, the ADGM-SP system is likely to be in high demand, and could generate significant revenue for the Indian defence industry.
