The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully executed the maiden flight tests of India’s Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) on August 23, around 12:30 PM off the coast of Odisha. This multi-layered platform integrates Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM), Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missiles, and a high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW). 

Controlled by an advanced centralized command-and-control center developed by DRDO, the system demonstrated precise interception of three different aerial threats: two high-speed unmanned fixed-wing drones and one multi-copter drone. Each weapon layer QRSAM, VSHORADS, and DEW engaged and eliminated its designated target at varying ranges and altitudes.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the armed forces, and industry partners, noting that the successful test confirms India's expanding multi-layer air‐defence capability and reinforces area defense for critical infrastructure. Further validation came through range instrumentation at Chandipur’s Integrated Test Range, affirming flawless performance across radar, missile systems, communication links, and control components.

This milestone highlights India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology and marks a significant enhancement of the nation’s aerial defense infrastructure.