India Balances S-400 Expansion With Project Kusha In Defence Transition

India is weighing Russia’s ₹50,000 crore proposal for five more S-400 squadrons even as it accelerates Project Kusha, its indigenous long-range air defence program.

The move highlights a transitional phase where imports meet immediate operational needs while domestic systems mature, reflecting Modi’s Atmanirbhar defence vision.

Russia has formally pitched five additional S-400 squadrons to India in a deal worth about ₹50,000 crore. This comes months after India cleared plans for expansion following Operation Sindoor, where the S-400 proved decisive against Pakistani aerial threats.

Four squadrons from the original 2018 contract have already been delivered, with the fifth due by November 2026. Deliveries under the new contract would begin three years after signing, reflecting production timelines.

The apparent contradiction lies in India’s simultaneous push for Atmanirbharta and its reliance on Russian systems. Yet the reality is that self-reliance is not an overnight switch. India has immediate operational requirements, particularly in air defence, and the S-400 provides a proven long-range layer while indigenous systems like Project Kusha continue development.

The proposed squadrons would strengthen India’s layered architecture across eastern and western fronts. During Operation Sindoor, the S-400 achieved what may be the longest recorded surface-to-air missile kill, destroying a Pakistani surveillance aircraft at 314 kilometres.

It also downed several fighter aircraft, including Chinese-supplied J-10s, underscoring its strategic importance. Pakistan even activated spies and sleeper cells to locate the batteries, highlighting the system’s deterrent value.

Parallel to imports, India is advancing Project Kusha, a DRDO-led program to build a homegrown long-range surface-to-air missile system. It recently achieved a successful interception at 140 kilometres, marking progress towards complementing and eventually rivalling imported systems.

Prime Minister Modi, in his Independence Day address, emphasised leadership in next-generation technologies including hypersonics, drones, and counter-drone systems, signalling a clear intent to move from buying advanced weapons to building them.

India’s defence production has surged nearly fourfold in the past decade, reaching ₹1.78 lakh crore in FY2025-26 compared with ₹46,429 crore in 2014-15. Exports hit a record ₹38,424 crore, with missiles, artillery, naval platforms, drones, and electronics among the items sold abroad.

The private sector contributed about ₹42,000 crore, or 24 per cent of total production, reflecting growing industry participation.

The Ministry of Defence has opened more space for private companies, Start-Ups, and MSMEs. In August, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved technology transfer of DRDO-developed missile systems to private industry, enabling mass production.

This takes Atmanirbharta from laboratory prototypes to factory-scale manufacturing. The aim is to build an ecosystem involving DRDO, defence PSUs, private firms, academia, and foreign partnerships.

Foreign systems are not viewed as the opposite of self-reliance. Instead, partnerships like the C-295 aircraft program and indigenous warship-building show how imports can expand domestic capacity. The key question is whether India can design and manufacture systems that others want to buy, transforming it from importer to global supplier.

Russia is also pitching its next-generation S-500 Prometheus system, capable of intercepting intercontinental ballistic missiles and low-orbit satellites. While India considers this, its focus remains on balancing immediate needs with long-term autonomy.

Discussions around the S-400 deal reportedly include maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities in India, and possible joint production under technology transfer, aligning with Make-in-India goals.

Ultimately, the S-400 represents what India can acquire today, while Project Kusha represents what it aims to build tomorrow. The ₹50,000 crore deal is less about imports versus self-reliance and more about managing a defence transition without capability gaps.

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Project Kusha M1 Interceptor Successfully Undergoes Wind Tunnel Trials At NAL

The M1 interceptor missile of Project Kusha has undergone crucial wind tunnel testing at the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), marking a significant step in validating its aerodynamic performance and readiness for future flight trials.

This milestone strengthens India’s indigenous long-range air defence program and highlights the nation’s growing self-reliance in strategic defence technology.

The M1 interceptor, designed for ranges up to 150 kilometres, is optimised to engage highly agile targets such as fighter aircraft and cruise missiles.

At the NAL facility in Bangalore, the missile was subjected to extensive wind tunnel trials to assess its aerodynamic stability, control surfaces, and overall flight behaviour under simulated high-speed airflow conditions. These tests are critical in ensuring that the missile can withstand real-world operational environments.

The wind tunnel evaluation focused on parameters such as drag coefficients, lift-to-drag ratios, and the behaviour of the missile’s dual-pulse rocket motor exhaust flow. Engineers also examined the missile’s nose cone design and fin configurations to confirm their ability to maintain stability during supersonic flight. These results will directly feed into the upcoming integrated flight trials scheduled for later this year.

The M1 interceptor shares a common kill vehicle with the M2 and M3 variants but uses a tailored booster setup to achieve its shorter-range engagement envelope. This modular design approach allows for cost-effective production and streamlined logistics while maintaining versatility across different threat scenarios.

The NAL tests have validated the missile’s ability to manoeuvre effectively against evasive aerial targets.

The trials also demonstrated the seamless integration of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling with physical testing. Prior simulations conducted by DRDO laboratories were cross-verified against the wind tunnel data, ensuring accuracy in predicting the missile’s aerodynamic performance.

This synergy between digital modelling and experimental validation is a hallmark of modern missile development.

The importance of the M1 interceptor lies in its role as the first layer of Project Kusha’s three-tiered defensive shield. By neutralising threats at shorter ranges, it complements the longer-range M2 and M3 interceptors, thereby creating a robust multi-layered air defence system. The successful wind tunnel tests confirm that the M1 is on track for operational readiness.

Project Kusha, sanctioned at a cost of approximately ₹21,700 crore, aims to equip the Indian Air Force with five squadrons initially, with potential expansion to ten squadrons.

The inclusion of private industry partners such as Solar Industries for solid rocket motors and Bharat Electronics Limited for system integration underscores India’s push towards self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The M1 interceptor’s development is strategically significant as it reduces India’s dependence on imported systems like the Russian S-400. By creating a domestic alternative, India ensures uninterrupted lifecycle support and greater strategic independence.

The system’s integration into the Indian Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) will allow seamless coordination with existing platforms such as Akash and Barak-8.

The wind tunnel testing at NAL is not just a technical milestone but also a symbolic one, showcasing India’s ability to conduct advanced aerodynamic validation domestically. It places India among a select group of nations capable of developing and testing long-range air defence systems indigenously.

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India’s Kusha Missile Test Strengthens Path To Indigenous Multi-Layered Air Defence Shield: Chinese Media

India’s maiden test of the Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile marks a decisive step towards self-reliance in air defence, reducing dependence on imported systems like Russia’s S-400 and Israel’s Barak, reported SCMP a Chinese based media portal.

The successful July 23 trial validated indigenous technologies and placed India among a select group of nations capable of fielding advanced long-range missile shields.

The Kusha system has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation in collaboration with domestic industry partners. It is designed to neutralise a wide spectrum of aerial threats including fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and strategic bombers.

The maiden test from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha successfully intercepted a simulated high-speed, high-altitude target, demonstrating the system’s radar, guidance and command-and-control capabilities.

The project is a cornerstone of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-phase plan to establish a multi-layered national defence umbrella by 2035. This umbrella is intended to protect both strategic and civilian assets against ballistic missiles, stealth aircraft, drones, and precision-guided weapons.

Kusha will form the outer layer of this shield, complementing shorter-range systems such as Akash and medium-range interceptors already in service.

The system is expected to comprise three interceptor variants. The M1 missile will engage targets up to 150 km, the M2 up to 250 km, and the M3 up to 350–400 km. Reports suggest the missiles can reach speeds of Mach 5.5, with advanced seekers including dual active radio frequency and imaging infrared guidance to counter stealth aircraft and electronic jamming. The radar architecture is based on Gallium Nitride AESA technology, enhancing detection and tracking performance.

India has already inducted four squadrons of the Russian S-400 Triumf system under a US$5.43 billion deal signed in 2018, with a fifth expected later this year. However, deliveries have been delayed due to Russia’s military commitments in Ukraine.

Retired Air Marshal Ravi Gopal Krishna Kapoor noted that while the S-400 proved effective during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, reliance on imports leaves India vulnerable to supply-chain disruptions and cost escalations. He emphasised that Kusha, being indigenous, can be seamlessly integrated into India’s air defence architecture and upgraded domestically.

Kapoor also highlighted the growing complexity of aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and fifth-generation fighters equipped with long-range air-to-air missiles. He argued that robust multi-layered defence is the best form of air denial, and Kusha could even play a limited offensive role by preventing adversaries from launching weapons, as demonstrated during Operation Sindoor.

Srinivasan Balakrishnan of the Indic Researchers Forum stressed that indigenous control over production, maintenance, and software reduces vulnerabilities associated with foreign supply chains.

He pointed out that Kusha’s cost is estimated to be nearly half that of comparable imported systems, making it both strategically and economically advantageous. He added that without Kusha, Sudarshan Chakra would remain incomplete, but with it India gains the backbone for nationwide coverage.

The successful test has been hailed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh as a landmark achievement, placing India in the elite club of nations with indigenous long-range air defence systems.

Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu also congratulated DRDO, noting that every indigenous success strengthens national security and aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Deployment of Kusha is slated between 2028 and 2030, with further trials expected to refine its capabilities. Once operational, it will provide India with a scalable, layered shield against modern aerial threats, reducing reliance on imports and enhancing resilience against future conflicts.

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Kusha Dir Defence Missile Surpasses Range Expectations In First-Stage Trials

India’s Kusha surface-to-air missile has achieved a significant breakthrough during its first-stage trials in Odisha. Developed by Nagpur-based Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), the missile exceeded the stipulated range parameters, marking a major step towards the government’s plan to establish an indigenous multilayer air defence system under Mission Sudarshan Chakra, Times of India reported.

The Kusha missile is being positioned as the Indian counterpart to the Russian S-400 system. It has already been deployed by the Indian Air Force during Operation Sindoor, demonstrating its operational relevance. During the trial, the missile surpassed the expected range of 120 kilometres, achieving a performance substantially above the set parameters.

The trial is the first of three stages, with two more phases planned before final user evaluation and clearance. SDAL chairperson Satyanarayan Nuwal confirmed that the company aims to complete the second and third stage trials within the stipulated timeframe. He emphasised that the range achieved was higher than anticipated, underscoring the missile’s advanced capabilities.

SDAL is serving as the development-cum-production partner (DcPP) for the missile alongside the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Bharat Dynamics Limited, a public sector undertaking, is also a DcPP in the project. Once the missile clears all evaluations, production will begin on a bulk scale to meet orders from the armed forces.

Sources have indicated that, similar to the S-400, the Kusha missile will be developed in three variants. These will cover ranges of 120–150 kilometres, 250 kilometres, and 400 kilometres, thereby providing layered protection against diverse aerial threats. This tiered approach is expected to form the backbone of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, India’s indigenous multi-layered air defence program.

The successful trial not only strengthens India’s defence industry but also reduces reliance on foreign imports.

It reflects the growing capability of domestic firms like SDAL to deliver advanced systems in partnership with DRDO and other state-run enterprises. The achievement is seen as a milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

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Why India’s 'S‑400' Won’t Chase Ballistic Missiles

The Defence Research and Development Organisation has successfully tested the long-range air defence missile system known as Kusha, Times of India reported.

This marks a significant milestone for India’s defence sector and sets a benchmark for indigenous missile development.

The system is being developed in three variants and is often described as India’s answer to Russia’s S-400, which proved its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor.

Recent conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, along with the lessons of Operation Sindoor, have highlighted the importance of robust air defence networks. These networks must be capable of tackling threats ranging from small drones to ballistic missiles.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced during his Independence Day address last year that a system called Sudarshan Chakra would be developed domestically to defend both strategic and civilian areas by 2035.

The aim is to build a credible ballistic missile defence shield. The test of Kusha is only the first step in this complex journey. DRDO has already demonstrated its ability to design and validate systems capable of intercepting hostile ballistic missiles in both endo-atmospheric and Exo-atmospheric domains. This initiative began well before Iran’s missile attacks on its neighbours, which exposed the limitations of traditional systems.

Iran’s strikes on Saudi Arabia and the UAE revealed vulnerabilities in advanced systems such as the US Patriot and THAAD. Despite heavy investment, these countries struggled to protect critical infrastructure. This underscores the need for layered, integrated air defence systems with redundancy. India has absorbed these lessons as it advances mission Sudarshan Chakra.

Under Project Kusha, India plans to field three long-range surface-to-air missiles: M1 with a range of 150 km, M2 with 250 km, and M3 with 350 km. Together, these will form the backbone of a layered defence system capable of engaging aircraft, stealth fighters, cruise missiles, and drones.

Defence against ballistic missiles will rely on the dedicated BMD shield, separate from Kusha. The system is envisioned as fully automated and integrated, rivalling the S-400 but designed to be scalable and part of a broader national shield.

The concept is ambitious, comparable to the US’s proposed “Golden Dome” or Israel’s “Iron Dome.” India’s challenge is unique, as it must defend a vast landmass with multiple high-value targets spread across thousands of kilometres.

This requires not only interceptor missiles but also large-scale integration of sensors, radars, and command centres, along with advanced weapons such as directed energy systems. Building such a shield demands a whole-of-nation approach involving industry and research institutions.

India already has building blocks in place. It has developed quick reaction SAMs, very short-range air defence systems, and tested a 30-kilowatt laser-based directed energy weapon. Phase-I of the indigenous BMD system, capable of intercepting missiles in the 2,000-km class, has been validated.

More recently, Phase-II interceptors designed to neutralise threats in the 5,000-km class have been tested. These achievements demonstrate capability, but the challenge lies in integration—creating a seamless network that can detect, track, and neutralise threats.

The test of Kusha’s interceptor missile shows that New Delhi is serious about building a layered defence against both ballistic and aerial threats.

However, this is only the beginning. To secure its skies, India must invest in integration, redundancy, and innovation. Past conflicts have shown that even the best systems can fail under saturation attacks. India’s challenge will be to build resilience into its air defence umbrella.

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DRDO Confirms KUSHA Missile Hit A High-Altitude Target With Pin-Point Accuracy In 1st Flight Test

India has successfully carried out the maiden flight test of the indigenous Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The test was conducted on Thursday and marks a major step forward in India’s indigenous air defence program.

The missile was tested against an electronic target designed to simulate a high-speed, high-altitude aerial threat. During the trial, the system successfully intercepted the target, validating its design and operational capability.

According to the Defence Ministry, the Kusha missile system has been designed to engage a wide range of aerial threats. These include fighter aircraft, missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles and large enemy aircraft across varying distances and altitudes.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the successful trial as an important milestone in India’s defence research and development. He emphasised that only a handful of nations possess the capability to develop such long-range surface-to-air missile systems. He added that the system would reduce India’s dependence on imports and represents a giant leap in the country’s air defence capability.

The ministry confirmed that all major components of the weapon system were developed indigenously. This includes the missile itself, radars and the command and control centre, all produced by various DRDO laboratories in collaboration with industry partners.

Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh personally monitored the launch activities. Following the successful flight test, he congratulated the teams involved for their achievement.

The Kusha missile is part of India’s broader effort to establish a layered air defence shield. It is expected to complement existing systems such as the Akash and Barak-8, while reducing reliance on imported platforms like the S-400. The system’s indigenous development strengthens India’s defence industry and aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The missile is designed to provide protection against saturation attacks involving multiple drones or missiles launched simultaneously. Its advanced radar and command systems allow for network-centric operations, ensuring rapid response to evolving aerial threats.

Future developmental trials will expand the system’s operational envelope, with induction into the armed forces expected after user trials.

Once deployed, Kusha will form a cornerstone of India’s national security architecture, offering layered protection for strategic assets, military bases and major urban centres.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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A Powerful New Shield: India’s Air Defence Strengthens After KUSHA Test Win

India has successfully conducted the maiden flight-test of the indigenous ‘Kusha’ Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LR-SAM) from APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha, marking a decisive leap in its air defence capabilities.

The system intercepted a simulated high-speed, high-altitude aerial threat, validating its design and underscoring its critical role in India’s national security architecture.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the test against an electronic target simulating a fast-moving aerial threat. The missile system successfully intercepted the target, demonstrating its ability to neutralise hostile aircraft, drones, cruise missiles and even certain ballistic missile classes.

This trial validated not just the missile but the entire system, including radars, command-and-control centres and communication networks, all developed indigenously with Indian industry partners.

The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement as a landmark in India’s defence research and development. He emphasised that only a handful of nations possess the capability to design and deploy such long-range air defence systems.

The Kusha program significantly reduces India’s dependence on foreign imports, placing the country firmly on the path of strategic self-reliance.

The Kusha system is designed around a three-tier interceptor architecture. The M1 variant has a range of approximately 150 km, the M2 extends to 250 km, and the M3 reaches up to 350–400 km. This layered design allows operators to engage threats at varying distances, conserving long-range interceptors for distant, high-value targets while using shorter-range missiles for closer threats. The interceptors are expected to reach speeds of around Mach 5.5, supported by advanced radars and network-centric command systems.

The importance of Project Kusha lies in its ability to counter modern aerial threats. Potential adversaries possess stealth aircraft, long-range cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons and armed drones capable of launching stand-off attacks. India’s existing systems such as the Akash, Barak-8 and imported S-400 provide coverage, but Kusha fills the critical gap between medium-range and ultra-long-range defences. 

It ensures that India can defend strategic assets, military bases and major cities against saturation attacks involving multiple drones or missiles launched simultaneously.

The system is also central to India’s broader Mission Sudarshan Chakra, the indigenous multi-layered air and missile defence network. Once operational, Kusha will work in concert with other systems to provide comprehensive protection across the country’s airspace.

Its indigenous development also strengthens India’s defence industry, with organisations such as Bharat Electronics and Bharat Dynamics playing key roles in production.

To illustrate its significance, comparisons with global systems are instructive:

The maiden test is only the beginning. Developmental trials of the M2 and M3 interceptors will follow, with user trials by the Indian Air Force expected before induction around 2028–2030. Once operational, Kusha will be a cornerstone of India’s national security, ensuring layered protection against evolving aerial threats and reinforcing the country’s strategic autonomy.

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India's Long-Range KUSHA Air Defence Missile System Passes Maiden Flight Test

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation has achieved a major breakthrough with the maiden flight test of the indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile system, Kusha.

The test was conducted from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, marking a critical milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen its air defence architecture.

The Kusha missile system is designed to neutralise a wide spectrum of aerial threats. It can engage fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles and large enemy aircraft across extended ranges and varying altitudes. This versatility makes it a cornerstone of India’s future layered air defence network.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement, describing it as a landmark in India’s defence research and development. He emphasised that only a handful of nations possess the capability to develop such long-range surface-to-air missile systems. The successful trial, he noted, represents a giant leap in India’s air defence capability while simultaneously reducing dependency on imports.

The maiden test is expected to accelerate India’s indigenous air defence program. By reducing reliance on foreign systems, it strengthens the country’s strategic autonomy and aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which prioritises self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The program also reflects India’s determination to build advanced systems tailored to its unique operational requirements.

Kusha has been conceived as a multi-layered defence solution. It is designed to provide protection against diverse airborne threats over extended ranges and altitudes, ensuring flexibility in countering both conventional and emerging challenges. The successful flight test marks the beginning of a series of developmental trials that will validate its performance before induction into the armed forces.

The system is expected to complement existing platforms such as the Akash, Barak-8 and the imported S-400, forming part of a comprehensive shield against aerial threats. Its indigenous design and development will also contribute to India’s growing expertise in missile technologies, radar systems and command-and-control networks.

The trial underscores India’s progress in building advanced defence systems that match global standards. It demonstrates the country’s ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies into operational platforms and signals a new phase in the evolution of its air defence capabilities.

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India Steadily Advancing Project Kusha As Indigenous Long-Range Air Defence Program

Project Kusha is India’s most ambitious indigenous long-range air defence program, now advancing into fabrication and testing stages with DRDO issuing tenders for the M3 interceptor canisters.

It is designed to provide a multi-layered shield against aircraft, drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles, with induction expected in the late 2020s.

Air defence has become one of the most critical pillars of modern warfare. Modern threats such as stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, armed drones and long-range ballistic missiles travel faster, lower and are harder to detect than ever before. Protecting military bases, strategic assets and major cities requires multiple layers of sophisticated systems working together.

India has steadily strengthened its defensive capabilities through the Akash missile, the Barak-8 and the Russian-made S-400. The next step in this evolution is Project Kusha, an indigenous long-range air defence program intended to reduce dependence on imported systems while providing protection against diverse aerial threats.

The security environment has changed dramatically over the past two decades, with adversaries possessing long-range cruise missiles, armed drones, stand-off weapons and advanced combat aircraft. Project Kusha will form one of the layers of India’s multi-layered air defence system, complementing existing platforms rather than replacing them.

Project Kusha is a long-range surface-to-air missile program being developed by DRDO for the Indian Air Force. It is expected to employ three interceptor missiles with different ranges, enabling operators to target threats based on speed and distance.

Reports suggest engagement ranges of approximately 150 km, 250 km and 350–400 km, providing flexibility against aircraft, cruise missiles, drones and certain ballistic missile threats.

The system is designed to intercept combat aircraft, UAVs, helicopters, cruise missiles and some classes of ballistic missiles. Advanced radar systems will detect and track incoming targets, while sophisticated command-and-control software will select the most suitable interceptor. The ability to track and engage multiple targets simultaneously is a key requirement, especially against saturation attacks involving swarms of missiles or drones.

Missiles alone do not make an effective system. Project Kusha will incorporate long-range early warning radars, fire control radars and secure communication networks to form a comprehensive network-centric defence. This ensures constant situational awareness and coordination across multiple launch sites, reducing response times against fast-moving threats.

Indigenous technology lies at the core of the program. DRDO leads the effort with support from Indian defence industries developing radars, launchers, electronics and missile technologies. While some specialised components may require external assistance, the program will significantly enhance India’s expertise in missile defence technologies.

Project Kusha is often compared with global systems such as Russia’s S-400, the US Patriot PAC-3 and Israel’s David’s Sling. While comparisons are useful, they remain speculative until official testing data is released.

The S-400 offers extremely long ranges and is already operational, while Project Kusha aims to provide similar layered protection tailored to India’s needs. Compared with the Patriot PAC-3, Kusha is expected to defend large strategic areas and counter cruise missiles and selected ballistic threats.

Unlike David’s Sling, which focuses on medium-range ballistic missiles, Kusha is designed for broader long-range capabilities.

Development has progressed steadily. In 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council approved the acquisition of five squadrons for the Indian Air Force. DRDO has since issued multiple tenders for warhead integration, testing assemblies and canister materials for the M3 interceptor, signalling the program’s transition from design to fabrication. User trials and induction are expected in the late 2020s or early 2030s.

Challenges remain before operational deployment. Accurate radar tracking, reliable guidance systems and rapid command software must be proven against increasingly sophisticated enemy tactics, including jamming and drone swarms. The system must demonstrate consistent performance under these conditions.

Project Kusha represents a major milestone in India’s missile defence ambitions. If successfully developed and inducted, it will augment the Indian Air Force with a modern long-range capability, strengthen India’s layered defence architecture and advance indigenous expertise in missile, radar and command technologies.

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Solar Industries, BDL Joins DRDO Development-Cum-Production Partners For Project Kusha

Project Kusha represents India’s most ambitious indigenous air defence program, combining DRDO’s technological leadership with private sector partners Solar Industries and Bharat Dynamics Limited under the Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) model.

The system is designed to provide a multi-layered shield against advanced aerial threats, with phased induction planned between 2028 and 2030.

Project Kusha has been conceived as a long-range surface-to-air missile (LRSAM) system capable of neutralising drones, cruise missiles, stealth aircraft, and ballistic missiles before they penetrate Indian airspace.

The system is structured around three interceptor variants. The M1 interceptor, with a range of 120 to 150 kilometres, is optimised for short-range engagements against low-flying or stealthy targets. The M2 interceptor extends the reach to approximately 250 kilometres, while the M3 interceptor pushes the envelope to 350–400 kilometres, capable of engaging threats at hypersonic speeds.

All three interceptors travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, with simulations confirming performance up to Mach 5.5. The M3 variant is specifically designed to counter intermediate-range ballistic missiles travelling at re-entry speeds of up to 4 kilometres per second, equivalent to Mach 12.

A defining feature of Project Kusha is its adoption of “hit-to-kill” technology. Unlike conventional warheads, the interceptors are engineered to collide directly with incoming threats, ensuring destruction at high altitudes.

This is achieved through a specialised kill vehicle equipped with dual radio-frequency and infrared seekers, enabling precise targeting in all weather conditions and resilience against electronic jamming. Internal trials have demonstrated success rates of 80 to 90 per cent against manoeuvring targets, reflecting the maturity of the technology derived from the Akash-NG program.

The DcPP model has been instrumental in accelerating the timeline of Project Kusha. Traditionally, private industry partners were limited to supplying sub-systems, but under this framework they are integrated from the design phase through to fabrication and production.

This collaborative approach ensures smoother transitions from prototype to production, reduces delays, and strengthens India’s defence ecosystem. Solar Industries, with its expertise in explosives and propulsion systems, and Bharat Dynamics Limited, with its missile production capabilities, are central to this effort.

Bharat Electronics Limited is also engaged as an integration partner, ensuring seamless assembly and testing of the system. The Cabinet Committee on Security cleared the project in 2022, and by 2025 fabrication of the M1 interceptor had been completed, with trials scheduled to begin shortly thereafter. The phased induction of all three interceptors is expected between 2028 and 2030.

Project Kusha is not an isolated initiative but part of India’s broader “Sudarshan Chakra” air defence network. It will supplement existing systems such as the Barak 8, the Russian-origin S-400, and the indigenous ballistic missile defence program.

The Indian Air Force is the lead agency for deployment, with the Indian Navy also expected to induct a naval variant to supplement its LR-SAM systems. The program bridges the gap between medium-range systems like the MR-SAM, with an 80 kilometre range, and strategic systems like the S-400, with a 400 kilometre range. Its integration will create a “no-escape zone” of up to 350 kilometres for aerodynamic threats, including stealth fighters, supersonic cruise missiles, and hypersonic glide vehicles.

The strategic importance of Project Kusha lies in its ability to provide India with a credible deterrent against regional adversaries. Systems such as China’s DF-21D and Pakistan’s Shaheen-II are explicitly cited as threats the system is designed to counter.

The program reflects India’s determination to achieve self-reliance in defence technology, reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and harness the innovation of tier-2 and tier-3 suppliers and start-ups. The involvement of private industry under the DcPP model is expected to mature into a robust mechanism that ensures fair, transparent, and rapid development of complex defence systems.

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Russia Offers India Exclusive Joint Production Of S-500 Prometheus With Full Tech Transfer And Re‑Export Rights — A First For Any Partner

Russia has made an unprecedented offer to India: joint production of the S‑500 Prometheus air defence system with technology transfer and re‑export rights.

This would give India access to a capability unmatched by its current arsenal, but New Delhi’s hesitation reflects its parallel investment in Project Kusha, an indigenous long‑range air defence system designed to reach 350–400 km.

Russia’s S‑500 Prometheus represents the most advanced evolution of air and missile defence technology in Moscow’s arsenal. It offers an engagement range of 600 km, nearly double that of the S‑400 Triumf, and an altitude coverage of 200 km, extending into near‑space.

The system is designed to intercept hypersonic missiles travelling at Mach 7, stealth aircraft, and even low‑Earth‑orbit satellites. Its reaction time of 3–4 seconds is a dramatic improvement over the S‑400’s 9–10 seconds, enabling faster neutralisation of threats.

Using advanced Gallium Nitride radars and hit‑to‑kill interceptors such as the 77N6‑N, the S‑500 can track and engage multiple targets simultaneously across all categories, from drones to intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Russia’s offer to India is unique. No other country has been extended joint production rights, technology transfer, and re‑export privileges for the S‑500. This reflects Moscow’s intent to deepen strategic defence ties with New Delhi, counterbalance India’s growing partnership with the United States, and secure its market share in South Asia.

Joint production would also align with India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, potentially involving Bharat Electronics Limited and Bharat Dynamics Limited in manufacturing, creating jobs and strengthening India’s defence industrial base.

Yet India has not accepted the offer. The hesitation is deliberate and strategic. India is advancing Project Kusha, officially known as the Extended Range Air Defence System (ERADS), being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation. Project Kusha is designed to provide a multi‑layered shield with three interceptor variants: one engaging targets at 150 km, another at 250 km, and the longest‑range interceptor neutralising threats at 350–400 km.

It will be capable of intercepting fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, loitering munitions, and certain ballistic missile threats. The system will integrate with the Indian Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), ensuring seamless coordination with existing radar networks and enabling automated threat prioritisation and simultaneous tracking of multiple targets. A naval version is also planned, capable of intercepting anti‑ship ballistic missiles at speeds up to Mach 7.

India’s caution stems from several factors. First, CAATSA sanctions risk looms large, as deeper engagement with Russian defence technology could trigger American diplomatic pressure.

Second, the cost and sensitivity of technology transfer remain uncertain, with Russia unlikely to share its most advanced secrets fully.

Third, India’s long‑term strategy is to reduce dependence on foreign systems and achieve strategic autonomy through indigenous platforms like Project Kusha, which promises lower lifecycle costs and domestic control over upgrades and maintenance.

The decision thus reflects a balancing act. Accepting Russia’s offer would give India immediate access to near‑space defence and hypersonic interception capabilities, strengthening deterrence against China’s DF‑series missiles and Pakistan’s evolving arsenal.

But prioritising Project Kusha would consolidate India’s self‑reliance, reduce vulnerability to external pressures, and establish India as a future exporter of advanced air defence systems.

Agencies

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Defence Acquisition Council Approves Record ₹2.38 Lakh Crores Arsenal, Boosting S-400, Drones, And Indigenous Firepower

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved a sweeping set of defence proposals valued at approximately ₹2.38 lakh crore, announced PIB.

This landmark decision underscores the Indian government's commitment to bolstering military capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.

Among the key approvals is the procurement of the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This advanced air defence platform, already partially inducted from Russia, enhances India's layered missile defence architecture, capable of engaging aerial threats at ranges up to 400 km.

The DAC also greenlit the overhaul of Su-30 aero engine aggregates, critical for sustaining the IAF's backbone fleet of Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters. This maintenance initiative will extend the operational life of these multi-role aircraft, ensuring high availability rates without dependency on foreign overhauls.

For the Indian Army, approvals include the Air Defence Tracked System, a mobile platform designed to neutralise low-flying aircraft and drones, addressing gaps in short-range air defence exposed in recent conflicts.

Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition has been cleared, vital for upgrading the firepower of main battle tanks like the T-90 and Arjun. This ammunition penetrates modern reactive armour, enhancing anti-tank capabilities against armoured threats from neighbouring adversaries.

The High Capacity Radio Relay system will modernise battlefield communications, providing secure, high-bandwidth data links for real-time command and control across diverse terrains.

The Dhanush Gun System, an indigenous 155mm/45 calibre howitzer, receives further procurement nods. Developed by the Ordnance Factory Board, it bolsters artillery mobility and precision strikes, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat push for self-reliance.

Additionally, the Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System equips the Army with versatile UAVs for persistent surveillance, operable from unprepared sites, ideal for forward areas along contested borders.

Shifting to the IAF, the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement replaces ageing An-32 and Il-76 fleets. These new aircraft will fulfil strategic airlift needs, enabling rapid troop and equipment deployment over long distances.

Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft, likely advanced UCAVs, mark a leap in unmanned combat capabilities. They will enable precision strikes deep into enemy territory, reducing risks to pilots in high-threat environments.

For maritime forces, Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles (Hovercraft) have been approved. These versatile platforms support high-speed coastal patrols, reconnaissance, search and rescue, and logistics in littoral zones, enhancing the Navy's amphibious operations.

These approvals form part of a record-breaking fiscal year for defence acquisitions. In FY26, the DAC has issued Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 55 proposals totalling ₹6.73 lakh Crores.

Capital procurement contracts signed so far in the current fiscal stand at 503 proposals worth ₹2.28 lakh Crores—the highest ever in any single year. This surge reflects accelerated indigenisation and private sector involvement.

The S-400 integration, in particular, strengthens India's deterrence against aerial incursions, complementing systems like Akash and MRSAM. Amid tensions with China and Pakistan, it fortifies air superiority.

Unmanned Combat Jets and strike drones signal a pivot towards network-centric warfare, integrating AI and swarm tactics for future battlefields.

Procurements like Dhanush and MTA emphasise indigenous manufacturing, with offsets mandating technology transfers and local production, reducing import reliance from over 70% to targeted levels below 50% by 2027.

Challenges persist, including execution timelines and integration with legacy systems. However, the DAC's proactive stance positions India as a formidable defence power. This wave of approvals not only plugs capability voids but also stimulates the domestic industry, generating jobs and fostering innovation in aerospace and defence sectors.

PIB

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DRDO Advances Project Kusha with Successful M1 Missiles Trials, Bolstering India's Indigenous Air Defence Arsenal

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has entered a pivotal testing phase for Project Kusha, India's ambitious long-range surface-to-air missile (LR-SAM) program.

Reports from early 2026 confirm the successful initial developmental trials of the M1 interceptor variant, marking a significant milestone in the nation's pursuit of advanced air defence capabilities.

Project Kusha forms a cornerstone of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a comprehensive initiative to establish a multi-layered nationwide air defence shield by 2035. This fully indigenous system is designed to counter a spectrum of aerial threats, including aircraft, stealth fighters, cruise missiles, and drones, positioning it as a homegrown equivalent to the Russian S-400.

The program encompasses three variants tailored to diverse engagement ranges. The M1 variant, with a 150-km interception range, has achieved its first flight test in early 2026, with initial system trials deemed successful. These outcomes validate the foundational design and propulsion technologies under development.

Succeeding the M1, the M2 variant targets a 250-km range, with trials scheduled for 2027. This progression will enhance mid-tier defence against extended-range threats, incorporating advanced seeker and guidance systems refined from M1 data. DRDO anticipates iterative improvements to boost accuracy and response times.

The M3 variant represents the pinnacle of the system, offering a 350-400+ km range, with developmental trials planned for 2028. Capable of engaging high-altitude ballistic and hypersonic threats, M3 will integrate seamlessly with existing Indian radar networks, ensuring robust Exo-atmospheric interception.

DRDO's timeline projects completion of all three variants by 2028, paving the way for operational induction into the Indian Air Force and Navy around 2030. This accelerated schedule underscores the urgency of indigenous manufacturing amid evolving regional security dynamics.

Key technological features include automated target acquisition, multi-target engagement, and resistance to electronic countermeasures. The system's mobility—via road and rail transport—mirrors global standards, enabling rapid deployment across India's vast borders.

Early reports had speculated on trials commencing in 2025, but 2026 has solidified as the confirmed start for M1 flight tests. This minor slippage reflects rigorous validation processes, ensuring reliability before scaling to M2 and M3.

Project Kusha's success hinges on collaboration with private sector partners, including Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Electronics Limited, accelerating production of missiles, radars, and command systems. Indigenous content exceeds 90 per cent, aligning with Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

Integration with platforms like the Akash-NG and QRSAM will create a layered shield, from point defence to long-range interdiction. For the Navy, ship-based variants promise enhanced fleet protection against saturation attacks.

Challenges persist, including hypersonic threat mitigation and network-centric warfare compatibility. DRDO's ongoing simulations and sub-system tests address these, with live-fire validations critical for user confidence.

By 2030, Project Kusha could equip 10-15 squadrons, transforming India's air defence posture. This capability will deter aggression from neighbours, safeguarding critical assets like airbases and urban centres.

Mission Sudarshan Chakra's broader vision integrates Kusha with laser-based systems and space-based sensors, aiming for a resilient, all-domain defence by 2035. Early M1 successes signal India's technological maturity in missile defence.

Stakeholders anticipate user trials in late 2026, followed by initial production orders. This momentum positions Project Kusha as a flagship of India's defence self-reliance, rivalling global leaders in LR-SAM technology.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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IAF's Bold Leap: Mastering Near-Space To Counter Hypersonic Menaces

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is transcending traditional aerial boundaries, venturing boldly into the realm of space operations. With the activation of a dedicated Space Training Cell at the College of Air Warfare (CAW) in Hyderabad, the IAF signals its intent to cultivate a new cadre of space-savvy warriors.

This facility, now fully operational, equips officers with the expertise to navigate the complexities of near-space environments, blending air power with cosmic capabilities.

Underpinning this shift is the IAF's ongoing development of a comprehensive doctrine for near-space operations. This doctrinal framework extends the service's responsibility from the conventional 20 km altitude—hitherto the edge of airspace—upwards into the near-space domain, typically spanning 20 to 100 km. Here, the thin atmosphere blurs the lines between aeronautics and astronautics, demanding innovative tactics and technologies.

At the heart of this evolution lies a critical mission: intercepting hypersonic ballistic missiles (HBMs) that threaten to dominate near-space trajectories. These weapons, capable of speeds exceeding Mach 5, manoeuvre unpredictably at altitudes where traditional air defence systems falter. The IAF aims to pioneer countermeasures, leveraging agility and precision to neutralise such threats before re-entry.

Complementing these efforts is the Defence Space Agency (DSA), established in 2019 under the Integrated Defence Staff. The DSA manages vital space-based assets for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), precise positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), as well as secure communications. These pillars enable real-time situational awareness, crucial for near-space engagements.

The Space Training Cell at CAW represents a cornerstone of human capital development. Pilots and ground crew undergo specialised modules on satellite operations, orbital mechanics, and counter-space warfare. Simulations replicate hypersonic intercepts, fostering decision-making under the unique physics of near-space, where drag is minimal and velocities soar.

India's indigenous space program, spearheaded by ISRO, provides a robust foundation. Collaborations yield dual-use technologies like the GSAT series for encrypted comms and the Cartosat constellation for high-resolution ISR. The IAF integrates these with platforms such as the Akashteer air defence system, evolving it for space-layer defence.

Near-space operations demand novel platforms. The IAF eyes high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) UAVs like the TAPAS-BH-201, capable of 30+ km loiter times, and future hypersonic vehicles akin to DRDO's HSTDV. These assets bridge the gap, offering persistent vigilance and rapid response in contested near-space.

Countering hypersonic threats requires layered defences. The IAF doctrine emphasises boost-phase intercepts using space-based sensors for early warning, cueing ground-based systems like the S-400 or indigenous AD-1 missiles. Directed energy weapons (DEWs) and kinetic kill vehicles emerge as promising tools for precision strikes at extreme altitudes.

Geopolitically, this expansion responds to regional provocations. China's hypersonic arsenal, including the DF-17 and YJ-21, and Pakistan's nascent programs underscore the urgency. India's Agni-V and BrahMos-II developments mirror this, but defensive parity demands IAF dominance in near-space.

The DSA's ISR suite, bolstered by RISAT radar imaging satellites, delivers all-weather targeting data. PNT from NAVIC ensures metre-level accuracy for missile guidance, while secure comms via military-grade transponders maintain command chains amid jamming threats.

Training evolves beyond classrooms. The CAW's cell incorporates virtual reality for orbital pursuits and collaborative exercises with ISRO and DRDO. Joint missions, like the recent Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle trials, validate concepts, paving the way for operational squadrons.

Budgetary commitments reflect priority. The 2025-26 defence allocation earmarks funds for space augmentation, including 36 additional satellites and CAW infrastructure upgrades. Public-private partnerships with Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Electronics accelerate indigenisation.

Challenges persist. Near-space's vacuum-like conditions strain air-breathing engines, necessitating scramjet advancements. Cyber vulnerabilities in space assets demand robust hardening, while international norms like the Outer Space Treaty constrain weaponisation rhetoric.

However, the IAF's vision remains undeterred. By 2030, projections envision a dedicated near-space wing, integrating manned fighters with unmanned swarms for multi-domain superiority. This fusion redefines air power, extending India's strategic depth skywards.

Global precedents inspire. The US Space Force's orbital warfare and Russia's Cosmos intercepts highlight the stakes. India, however, leverages asymmetric advantages: cost-effective launches and a burgeoning private space sector like Skyroot and Agnikul.

The mantra 'the sky is no longer the limit' encapsulates this paradigm shift. As the IAF masters near-space, it not only safeguards the homeland but positions India as a pre-eminent space-faring military power, ready for the hypersonic age.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Barak-8 To Be Part of India's Multi-Layered Defence: Israeli Media

India’s air and missile defence architecture is undergoing rapid expansion, with DRDO-Israel Aerospace Industries’ (IAI) Barak-8 missile system positioned as a core operational layer within the country’s multi-tiered shield.

The system, co-developed by IAI and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is intended to provide both naval and land-based medium-range protection against a variety of airborne threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, and UAVs.

The program has deep strategic value, particularly because it serves as both an operational capability and as a bridge technology: while offering robust protection against current threats, it acts as a baseline for the collaborative and indigenous development of more advanced interceptors under India’s future defence roadmap.

Between 2017 and 2023, the Barak-8 was the centrepiece of some of the largest defence procurement contracts signed by India with Israel.

In April 2017, India finalised a $1.6 billion deal to procure the land-based variant of the system, followed shortly afterward in May by a separate $630 million contract for the naval-optimised configuration tailored to the Indian Navy.

These procurements stood as the Israeli defence industries’ largest-ever international defence deals until 2023, when IAI secured a landmark $3.5 billion Arrow 3 missile defence system contract with Germany.

The size and scale of these deals highlight India’s recognition of Barak-8 as a crucial enabler for its layered air-defence structure, especially when integrated alongside Russian-origin S-400 batteries and upcoming indigenous systems.

Operationally, the Barak-8 is particularly valued for its multi-platform deployability. The Indian Navy has integrated the system into frontline warships such as Kolkata-class destroyers and Visakhapatnam-class stealth destroyers, strengthening fleet area-defence capabilities against saturation strikes from advanced anti-ship missiles.

On land, the system is being deployed to protect high-value assets and strategic installations. Its range of up to 100–140 km, coupled with advanced active-seeker homing, mid-course guidance, and high mobility launch units, ensures responsive defence against regional threats.

This has made the Barak-8 a cornerstone of India’s plan to extend full-spectrum security coverage to strategic facilities across the country by 2035, a goal emphasised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the Make in India vision for defence self-sufficiency.

The collaboration around Barak-8 also reflects India’s approach of leveraging foreign partnerships to gain technology access while fostering local industrial growth. Several components of the missile system, including portions of the missile manufacturing, radar production, and command-and-control elements, have been localised through Indian defence majors such as Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).

This not only reduces dependency on imports but also aligns with India’s ambition to expand its indigenous capability for large-scale air-defence interceptor production. Such industrial participation ensures continuity of supply and supports the larger target of evolving from licensed production to fully indigenous systems in the near future.

Parallel to operational deployment, India is advancing Project Kusha, also called the Extended Range Air Defence System (ERADS) under DRDO’s leadership. Conceptually similar to Israel’s layered defence structure, Project Kusha seeks to field a family of locally developed long-range interceptors with ranges spanning 150 km to 400 km, which would extend well beyond the existing performance envelope of the Barak-8.

The modular integration plan for Project Kusha envisions that these indigenously built missiles can be seamlessly interfaced not only with the Barak-8 launch systems and sensors, but also with existing Russian S-400 Triumf platforms currently in Indian service.

The effort echoes Israel’s tiered defence ecosystem, where lower-tier defences like Iron Dome integrate operationally alongside medium- and high-altitude systems such as David’s Sling and Arrow. India’s adaptation will thus feature the Barak-8 as the mid-tier defence layer, bridging shorter-range quick-reaction missiles with extended-range interceptors now under development.

Strategically, the combination of Barak-8, S-400, and future ERADS systems under Project Kusha points to India’s intent of establishing one of the world’s most comprehensive multi-layered national air defence networks. This architecture is envisioned to provide uninterrupted and overlapping protective coverage across the entire country, shielding against both conventional threats from regional adversaries and advanced missile systems in future conflicts.

Once fully realised, the system will offer critical protection to India’s nuclear command-and-control nodes, strategic infrastructure such as refineries and defence industrial corridors, densely populated urban centres, and forward military deployments.

Beyond air threats, the sophistication of these networks also expands India’s deterrence posture, signalling to adversaries that saturation strikes and precision missile campaigns can be effectively blunted.

Thus, the Barak-8 emerges not merely as a foreign acquisition but as a strategic enabler in India’s pathway toward indigenous, layered, and self-reliant air defence.

Its operational maturity, adaptability to naval and land forces, and compatibility with future indigenous weapons make it indispensable during the transitory period as India transitions from reliance on imports to its own advanced systems under Project Kusha.

This integration of proven Israeli design with long-term Indian self-reliance ambitions exemplifies the hybrid model of defence modernisation that New Delhi is actively adapting to meet its 2035 full-coverage air-defence vision.

Based On Israeli Media Report

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