India successfully tests long-range Kusha interceptor missile, advancing homegrown air defense

Published Jul 27, 03:59 PM UTC

India has successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Kusha long-range surface-to-air interceptor missile, marking a key milestone in developing a domestic air defense system to rival Russia's S-400 Triumf. The test, conducted from A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha, 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 shorter-range Barak-8 systems (70 km). Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated the system will eliminate import dependency for such systems. However, India remains reliant on foreign systems for now, having recently approved acquisition of five additional S-400 systems. The indigenous system requires further validation and is expected to be operationally ready in three to four years. The test underscores India's push for military self-reliance amid growing aerial threats from drones, cruise missiles, and combat aircraft.