The Indian Army has issued a tender to acquire five to six regiments of the ‘Anant Shastra’ surface-to-air missile systems to enhance air defence along borders with Pakistan and China. The tender has been released to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the DRDO-developed Anant Shastra system, previously known as the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), according to defence officials.
Project Scope and Cost
The project is estimated at around ₹30,000 crore and aims to strengthen the Army Air Defence (AAD), which played a pivotal role during Operation Sindoor in countering Pakistani drone attacks. Once operational, the system will be deployed along both the western and northern borders.
Integration with Existing Defence Systems
The Army Air Defence currently operates systems like MR-SAM, Akash, and other smaller platforms. These systems work in tandem with the Indian Air Force to counter aerial threats effectively. The Anant Shastra system, with a range of approximately 30 km, will complement these existing short- and medium-range defence systems.
Mobility and Capabilities
Designed to be highly mobile and agile, the Anant Shastra can search and track targets while on the move and fire during brief halts. Its performance has been thoroughly evaluated in both day and night operational trials, ensuring readiness for various combat scenarios.
Role in Recent Operations
During a four-day conflict with Pakistan, which involved Chinese-supplied drones, the Indian Army used L-70 and Zu-23 air defence guns to destroy most aerial threats. The Akash and MR-SAM systems, along with the Air Force’s Spyder and Sudarshan S-400, played a critical role in neutralizing advanced threats.
Future Indigenisation Initiatives
The Army Air Defence is also set to receive new radars, very short-range air defence systems, jammers, and laser-based technologies to counter drones of Turkish and Chinese origin in the Pakistan Army. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi is actively pushing for greater indigenisation within the force. Future indigenous platforms under consideration include the Zorawar light tank and additional air defence systems.
