New Delhi: In a significant push towards indigenous defence capability, the Indian Army has issued a ₹30,000 crore tender to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the acquisition of the ‘Anant Shastra’ Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system, formerly known as the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM).
The system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is designed to provide mobile, short-range air defence against aerial threats such as drones, aircraft, and missiles.
Key Facts
- Project Cost: Approx. ₹30,000 crore
- Developer: DRDO
- Manufacturer: BEL
- Regiments to Be Procured: 5–6
- Deployment Zones: Borders with Pakistan and China
- Range: Approx. 30 km
- Mobility: High – can detect and intercept threats while in motion
- Combat Proven: Used effectively during Operation Sindoor (May 2025)
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Combat-Tested During Operation Sindoor
The ‘Anant Shastra’ system’s operational readiness and effectiveness were validated during Operation Sindoor, a four-day conflict in May 2025 where the Indian Army successfully neutralized Pakistani drone threats along the western front.
During the operation, Pakistani drones – equipped with Chinese technology – posed a serious threat. Indian air defence units responded with a combination of legacy systems (L-70, Zu-23), Akash, and MRSAM platforms, while the Anant Shastra system played a decisive role in intercepting fast-moving aerial targets.
Following the operation, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) immediately approved the procurement of this system, reinforcing its critical importance.
Features of ‘Anant Shastra’ Surface-to-Air Missile System
- Range: Approx. 30 km
- 360-degree Surveillance and Target Tracking
- Fire-on-the-Move Capability
- Day & Night Operations Tested
- Able to Engage Low-RCS Drones to High-Speed Aircraft
- Complements Akash and MRSAM Systems
This versatile and mobile air defence platform will fill the gap between very short-range and medium-range air defence systems. It enhances layered defence architecture along India’s most sensitive borders.
Part of India’s Indigenous Defence Push
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi is leading the Indian Army’s charge toward Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence. Alongside the induction of Anant Shastra, the Army is set to receive:
- New-generation radars
- Laser-based anti-drone systems
- Electronic jammers
- Very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) systems
These additions are aimed at neutralizing drone threats from Pakistani and Chinese sources, including Turkish-origin drones being operated by Pakistan.
The Army is also planning to induct Zorawar light tanks and a suite of AI-based combat systems.
Akash Teer: AI-Powered Sentinel of Indian Airspace
During Operation Sindoor, the Akash Teer Defence System, India’s first AI-powered integrated air defence control and command system, emerged as a force multiplier.
By integrating radars, sensors, and communication grids into a single operational platform, Akash Teer enabled real-time detection, tracking, and elimination of threats.
What This Means for India’s Security
This ₹30,000 crore investment in Anant Shastra marks a strategic leap in India’s self-reliant defence capabilities. The move bolsters border defences against modern aerial threats and is part of a long-term strategy to reduce dependency on foreign systems while enhancing operational readiness.
With these developments, the Indian Army continues to evolve into a tech-enabled, indigenous, and agile force, capable of defending the nation across all domains.
