The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is about to finalize a major contract for the Anant Shastra air defense system. This Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) is set to play a crucial role in enhancing the Indian Army’s mobile air defense capabilities. The contract, expected to be around ₹30,000 crore, should be approved by March 2026, transitioning the system from successful trials to active service. This step is vital for protecting mechanized units in modern combat.
Under this plan, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will lead the production. The project showcases India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense, often highlighted by the “Make in India” initiative. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) drove the research, while BEL will manufacture the electronics and radar systems. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) will produce the missiles, and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is in charge of the mobile launchers. This collaborative effort emphasizes India’s growing capabilities in defense technology.
The Anant Shastra is designed for agile warfare. Unlike traditional static systems, it operates from high-mobility truck platforms, allowing it to fight while moving. It can detect and engage targets without halting, which is a game-changer in the battlefield where speed matters. With integrated radars and sensors, it offers all-around defense against aerial threats. This mobility reduces vulnerability to enemy fire, a crucial lesson learned in recent conflicts where stationary defenses struggled against drones.
As the Indian Army’s Strike Corps advances, Anant Shastra will shield against modern threats, including droning swarms, cruise missiles, and even fighter jets. It has an interception range of 25-30 km and can operate up to an altitude of 10 km, ensuring comprehensive coverage during military operations. Recent studies, like those from the Centre for Land Warfare Studies, highlight the increasing need for such systems as aerial threats evolve.
The Anant Shastra isn’t just for ground troops. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is also considering it for its strategic roles, particularly in a proposed air defense network, referred to as the “Capital Dome,” for the Delhi-NCR area. This system aims to protect key locations, including VVIP zones, making it an essential piece of India’s defense architecture.
If the contract is signed by March 2026, the Anant Shastra QRSAM could be a turning point for Indian defense forces. It will not only boost the Army’s capabilities but also enhance the nation’s overall security framework, showcasing India’s progress in developing indigenous missile technology.
