Major defence breakthrough: DRDO test-fires Kusha LRSAM system, hits simulated target
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Major defence breakthrough: DRDO test-fires Kusha LRSAM system, hits simulated target Photograph: (Credit: X/@RajnathSingh)
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the maiden flight-test of 'Kusha,' India’s indigenous Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM), marking a milestone in building a multi-layered air defence shield against high-speed aerial threats.
In a major milestone for national security and defence technology, India has successfully conducted the maiden flight test of its indigenous Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile (LRSAM) system. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in close collaboration with Indian industry partners, the initial flight test validated that the missile, radar, launcher, and command-and-control systems executed and worked together effectively as a cohesive unit.
About Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile
The Kusha system is engineered to detect, track, and destroy a comprehensive spectrum of aerial threats, including enemy fighter jets, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/drones), and large enemy aircraft across extended ranges and altitudes.
Also read: What Is TARA? DRDO’s new glide kit turns unguided bombs into smart weapons; Features explained
Kusha vs S-400
While India currently operates the Russian-built S-400 Triumf—which is already in active service with the Indian Air Force—Kusha represents India's transition toward domestic production of long-range air defence platforms.
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Although the S-400 provides immediate operational readiness, Kusha is designed to offer a comparable long-range protective shield. Being fully indigenous, Kusha allows India to manage maintenance, routine upgrades, and scaled production domestically without relying on foreign supply chains.
The successful maiden flight aligns directly with the nation's Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. Operating alongside medium and short-range platforms such as Akash and Barak-8, as well as existing S-400 batteries, Kusha will complete a robust, multi-layered air defence network.
Kusha’s Key Advantage
Developing and producing long-range air defence platforms locally guarantees long-term sustainability, reduces foreign import dependency, and ensures complete control over strategic air defence infrastructure.
Technological Roadmap to Induction
While the maiden launch marks a crucial triumph, several rigorous developmental phases remain before the armed forces can formally induct Kusha:
- The missile must consistently prove its ability to destroy diverse targets—from agile fighter jets to low-RCS drones and high-speed missiles.
- Flawless real-time communication between radars, mobile launchers, missiles, and command hubs must be demonstrated across all future test firing scenarios.
- Trials will subject the system to varied geographical and extreme climatic conditions to guarantee real-world combat reliability.
Once DRDO refines the platform based on trial outcomes, Kusha will transition to final military user evaluations before operational deployment. For a visual breakdown of the launch and technical details of Project Kusha, see this India Conducts Maiden Flight Test Of Long-Range 'Kusha' Air Defence Missile System
