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New Delhi: The Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) is set to deploy a new Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) to counter rising aerial threats, including missiles, drones, and high-speed aircraft. The multi-layered air shield will rely on homegrown systems such as the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) systems, and a network of supporting technologies designed to detect, track, and neutralise hostile targets.
The Defence Ministry is keeping the project at high priority, especially after Pakistan allegedly attempted to target India during Operation Sindoor in May this year. The move marks a major shift toward self-reliance, as India had earlier planned to procure the US-made NASAMS-II—the same system that protects Washington DC and the White House. While negotiations had begun, the government reportedly stepped back due to the high cost quoted by the United States.
The planned IADWS will be managed by the Indian Air Force and will play a prominent role in securing sensitive installations across NCR. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will collaborate with production agencies to build the system’s command-and-control architecture and integrate multiple layers of missile and radar systems into one seamless defensive shield.
DRDO has already achieved significant milestones in India’s air defence capability. It has successfully developed the QRSAM, the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), and is currently working on a long-range SAM under Project Kusha, which aims to rival advanced global systems. These systems, once networked, will form the backbone of Delhi’s upcoming indigenous air defence grid.
Alongside indigenous efforts, India continues to strengthen its strategic arsenal with Russian technology. Two remaining squadrons of the S-400 Sudarshan system are expected to be delivered soon. India is also studying a proposal from Russia offering additional S-400 units as well as the next-generation S-500 system.
The shift toward an entirely Indian-built defence shield marks a major milestone in the country’s pursuit of strategic autonomy. Once deployed, the IADWS will provide Delhi with a robust, multi-tier security layer—tailored to India’s needs and free from dependence on expensive foreign systems.
