Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) – India’s Advanced Air Defense System

Why in news?

• The contract for India’s indigenous Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) system is expected to be finalized within 4-5 months, as stated by Lt. Gen. Sumer Ivan D’Cunha.

QRSAM: An Overview

General Information:

• Type: Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM)
• Country of Origin: India
• Designer: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
• Manufacturers: Bharat Electronics & Bharat Dynamics Limited
• Propellant: Solid Fuel

Key Features & Capabilities:

• Canister-Based Command & Control System: Integrated for seamless operations.
• Advanced Radar System:
• Active Array Battery Surveillance Radar
• Active Array Battery Multifunction Radar
• 360° coverage with "search on move" & "track on move" capabilities.
• Missile Technology:
  • Single-stage solid propulsion
  • Mid-course inertial navigation system
  • Two-way data link
  • Indigenously developed terminal active seeker for precision targeting.

Significance of QRSAM:

• Enhances India’s defense capabilities with a highly mobile and autonomous missile system.
• Provides a quick reaction mechanism against aerial threats in battlefield conditions.
• Supports indigenization efforts, reducing dependence on foreign defense systems.