What is Igla-S?

May 16, 2024

The Army is all set to begin receiving another set of Russian Igla-S very short range air defence systems (VSHORAD) by the end of May or early next month.

About Igla-S:

It is a man-portable air defence system (MANPADS) developed by Russia.
Capabilities:
- It is a hand-held defence system that can be operated by an individual or crew.
- It is designed to bring down low-flying aircraft and can also identify and neutralise air targets such as cruise missiles and drones.
It comprises the 9M342 missile, the 9P522 launching mechanism, the 9V866-2 mobile test station, and the 9F719-2 test set. These components work together to provide a comprehensive air defence solution.
A VSHORAD is the soldier’s last line of defence against enemy combat aircraft, helicopters and UAVs in the multilayered air defence network.
Range: It has a range of 500 metres to 6 kilometres and attack targets up to an altitude of 3.5 kilometres. The speed of the missile is 400 metres per second and the deployment time is 13 seconds.
Significance: The acquisition of the Igla-S MANPADS marks a significant step in enhancing India's air defence capabilities, particularly in mountainous regions.