The Indian Army has initiated the acquisition of highly mobile air defence systems to bolster its capabilities along the borders with Pakistan and China. A tender worth approximately ₹30,000 crore has been issued to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the procurement of five to six regiments of the indigenously developed 'Anant Shastra' surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems.

Key Highlights of the Acquisition:

• System: 'Anant Shastra' (formerly known as Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile or QRSAM).
• Developer: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Manufacturer: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
• Cost: Approximately ₹30,000 crore.
• Quantity: 5-6 regiments.
• Deployment: Borders with Pakistan and China.

About the 'Anant Shastra' System:

The 'Anant Shastra' system is a mobile, short-range air defence system designed to protect against aerial threats such as drones, aircraft, and missiles. It can search, track, and engage targets while on the move, with a firing range of around 30 km. The system is designed to complement existing systems like the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) and Akash systems.

Key features of the 'Anant Shastra' SAM system:

• Mobility: High, with the ability to detect and intercept threats while in motion.
• Range: Approximately 30 km.
• Surveillance: 360-degree surveillance and target tracking.
• Capabilities: Fire-on-the-move capability, day & night operations tested, able to engage low-RCS drones to high-speed aircraft.

Significance of the Acquisition:

• Boosting Indigenous Defence Capability: The acquisition promotes self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.
• Strengthening Air Defence: The 'Anant Shastra' system will enhance aerial surveillance and interception capabilities along sensitive borders.
• Filling Capability Gaps: This versatile and mobile air defence platform will fill the gap between very short-range and medium-range air defence systems.
• Technological Advancements: The project will stimulate the domestic defence ecosystem, creating jobs and fostering technological advancements in radar and missile guidance systems.
• Operational Readiness: The 'Anant Shastra' system's effectiveness was validated during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, where it played a decisive role in intercepting fast-moving aerial targets.
• Versatile Deployment: The system is ideal for deployment in diverse terrains, including high-altitude areas.

The Army Air Defence (AAD) currently operates systems such as MRSAM and Akash in coordination with the Indian Air Force to counter aerial threats. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the procurement proposal shortly after Operation Sindoor in May.