India successfully test-fires Kusha long-range interceptor missile, boosting indigenous air defense

Published Jul 27, 03:59 PM UTC

India successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Kusha long-range surface-to-air interceptor missile from A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island, marking a key milestone in developing a domestic air defense system to rival Russia's S-400 Triumf. The test intercepted a simulated high-speed, high-altitude aerial target. The Kusha program includes three variants with ranges of 150 km, 250 km, and 350-400 km, aiming to bridge the gap between the S-400 (400 km range) and Barak-8 (70 km range) systems. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated the system will reduce import dependency. However, India remains reliant on foreign systems for now, having recently approved acquisition of five additional S-400 systems. The indigenous system is expected to be operationally ready in three to four years. Analysts note the need for expanded long-range coverage along borders with Pakistan and China.