Defense News

India 

India's efforts to bolster its air defence capabilities have taken a significant leap forward with the advancement of Project Kusha by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This ambitious project aims to develop a homegrown Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) system, offering a robust solution to tackle long-range aerial threats.

Project Kusha: Key Focus

Project Kusha is designed to equip the Indian Air Force (IAF) with a potent tool to intercept a wide range of airborne threats, including stealth fighters, conventional aircraft, ballistic and cruise missiles, precision-guided munitions, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Key Details:

• The LRSAM system under Project Kusha is envisaged to have an impressive range of nearly 350 kilometers.
• It adopts a multi-layered defence strategy, potentially involving at least two new missiles with ranges of 150km and 250km, and potentially a third missile with a maximum reach of 350km.
• Official sources indicate that Project Kusha has successfully completed its design phase, paving the way for the development and fabrication of crucial components.

Progress and Timeline

The project targets completion by 2028-29 for testing and induction into the armed forces, with the development phase expected to commence around 2025-26.

Significance of Project Kusha

Project Kusha reflects India's commitment to enhancing its indigenous defence capabilities. Its success promises to significantly bolster the Indian Air Force's ability to safeguard the nation's airspace, reducing reliance on foreign systems and boosting self-sufficiency in defence.

With Project Kusha transitioning from the design phase to development, India's air defence capabilities are poised for a substantial boost. The upcoming years will be critical in witnessing the system materialize, marking a significant milestone for DRDO's technological prowess and India's strategic defence posture.