Igla-S

06.05.2025

Igla-S

Why in the news?                        

India recently received a fresh shipment of Russian Igla-S air defence missiles amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.

About Igla-S:

• It is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS) developed by Russia.
• It is a hand-held defence system that can be operated by an individual or crew.
• It is designed to bring down low-flying aircraft and can also identify and neutralise air targets such as cruise missiles and drones.

Features of the Igla-S:

• The Igla-S system comprises the 9M342 missile, the 9P522 launching mechanism, the 9V866-2 mobile test station and the 9F719-2 test set. These components work together to provide a comprehensive air defence solution.
• Weighing only 10.8 kilograms (missile) and 18 kilograms (entire system), it offers significant battlefield mobility.
• Its compact form makes it ideal for mobile ground units in high-threat zones.
• It uses infrared (IR) homing to lock onto the heat signatures of aerial targets.
• It is capable of engaging targets up to 6 km away and at altitudes of up to 3.5 km.
• The speed of the missile is 400 metres per second and the deployment time is 13 seconds.

                                                           Source: The Times of India

Consider the following statements regarding Igla-S, recently seen in the news:

1. It is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS).

2. It was developed by Russia.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 only

B.2 only

C.Both 1 and 2

D.Neither 1 nor 2

Answer C