India performs first test of its long-range missile system

India conducted its maiden test of the Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile system on July 23. This milestone is expected to strengthen the country's indigenous air defense network, addressing the challenges posed by modern threats such as drones and fifth-generation fighters. Developed by the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation, the system is a key component of the two-phase Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a plan aimed at creating a multilayered national defense shield against ballistic missiles, fighter aircraft, drones, and other threats by 2035.

The test highlighted the importance of relying on indigenous systems, as India's dependence on imported weaponry, like Russia's S-400 Triumf, has faced delays due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Indian Air Force leadership has praised the S-400's performance during the 2022 conflict with Pakistan, where it intercepted five Pakistani fighter jets and an early warning aircraft.

Retired Air Marshal Ravi Gopal Krishna Kapoor emphasized that Kusha's integration into India's air defense architecture is a natural progression, given the increasing number of threats. The phased deployment of Kusha, slated for 2028-2030, could complement existing S-400 systems, providing protection against a wide range of threats.

The system is projected to be equipped with three types of interceptor missiles, with ranges up to 400km, making it a cost-effective alternative to imported systems, with an estimated price half that of similar foreign counterparts.