The multi-layered, domestic Kusha air defense system is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) with the goal of greatly boosting India’s long-range air defense capabilities.
Three different versions of the Kusha project—Kusha-M1, Kusha-M2, and Kusha-M3—are intended to be incorporated into the armed services by 2030 and are each intended to intercept a variety of aerial threats at different ranges.
The short-range component, Kusha-M1, will be outfitted with missile systems that can close-in intercept incoming missiles and planes.
While Kusha-M3 is expected to have interception capabilities at distances surpassing 400 km, matching some of the most cutting-edge air defense systems worldwide, Kusha-M2 will expand coverage to medium-range threats by utilizing surface-to-air missiles with wider reach. Each of the three variations will have a different booster installed according to their operational range needs, but they will all have a common kill vehicle.
In order to tackle a wide range of aerial threats, the system is made to offer multi-layered space security. A single battery may launch multiple interceptor missiles to cover a protective area between 100 and 200 kilometers.
According to DRDO sources, Kusha-M1’s initial development trials might begin as early as September, with induction potentially occurring by 2028. Trials for Kusha-M2 are scheduled for the following year, and Kusha-M3 may begin testing by 2027.
India is positioning Kusha as its own domestic response to Russia’s S-500 system, and DRDO is optimistic that it will outperform the S-400 Triumf, which the Indian Air Force has successfully used in recent missions. In India’s air defense architecture, the long-range Kusha system is anticipated to offer a strong defensive wall against kinetic missiles, representing a major step towards self-reliance (Atmanirbharta).
Kusha’s development coincides with Russia continuing to supply India with further S-400 squadrons; the last of these deliveries are anticipated by 2026 as part of a $5.4 billion agreement.
However, the Kusha project strengthens India’s strategic autonomy in vital defense technologies by demonstrating the country’s dedication to developing domestic systems that can perform on par with or better than internationally renowned platforms like the S-400 and S-500.
