QRSAM Missile System: India has taken a big step in boosting its own defence technology with the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM). This new system is designed to protect the Indian Army’s tanks and troops from enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles while they are on the move. Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) along with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), this system is fast, mobile, and deadly accurate.
QRSAM Missile System
The QRSAM is built to be quick and flexible. It is mounted on an 8×8 high-speed truck made by Ashok Leyland Defence Systems, meaning it can move fast across rough terrain and fire missiles even while moving. This gives Indian forces constant protection without needing to stop.
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One of its best features is its two advanced radars. The first one, called the Active Array Battery Surveillance Radar, can spot enemy aircraft from up to 120 km away. The second, the Active Array Battery Multifunction Radar, can track targets up to 80 km away. Together, they give a full 360-degree view of the sky, so nothing sneaks past. The missile can hit target up to 30 km away, it can take down fighter jets, helicopters, drones, and even cruise missiles. It has a special “Identify Friend or Foe” (IFF) system to avoid accidentally hitting other things.
The QRSAM fits perfectly between India’s short-range weapons (like Igla-S missiles and L-70 guns) and bigger air defense systems (like Akash and S-400).
- Akash Missile System: Indigenous medium-range system (range ~25 km)
- MRSAM (Medium Range SAM): Jointly developed with Israel (range ~70 km)
- S-400 Triumf: Russian-made long-range system (range ~380 km)
- Barak-8: Indo-Israeli medium-range missile (range ~70 km)
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Why India Needs QRSAM?
After the 2019 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people were killed, India launched missile strikes on terror camps in Pakistan. Pakistan tried to fight back with missiles and drones but India’s air defence systems, including Akash and MRSAM were able to took it down. The Indian Army is also upgrading its air defence with new radars, jammers, and laser weapons to stop drones from countries like Turkey and China. The government has approved a ₹30,000 crore deal to buy multiple QRSAM units, making sure the Army stays protected along the borders, reported CNBC TV18.
India has many layers of air defence, from long-range systems like the S-400 to short-range guns. The QRSAM fits right in the middle, giving fast protection to troops on the ground. Its speed and mobility make it perfect for the frontlines, especially near Pakistan and China.
