New Delhi, 10 June, 2025:
“Project Kusha," an ambitious domestic long range air defense system that will greatly improve India's aerial defense capabilities, was unveiled by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Project Kusha, hailed as India's response to cutting edge international systems like the US's THAAD and Russia's S-500, intends to build a strong, multi layered defense against a variety of aerial threats. The new system, also called the Extended Range Air Defence System (ERADS), is intended to close the range gap between the 400 km S-400 system and India's 80 km Medium-Range Surface to Air Missile (MR-SAM). It will create a complete defense grid by integrating easily with other native platforms like Akash and Barak-8.
Three interceptor variants—the M1, M2, and M3 with engagement ranges of 150, 250, and 350 kilometers, respectively, will be included in Project Kusha. These interceptors are designed to destroy a variety of threats, such as aircraft, drones, stealth jets, and Mach 7 high speed anti-ship ballistic missiles. An 80–90% interception success rate is anticipated for the system. Project Kusha is centered on technological innovation, with plans to integrate dual seeker technologies that combine radar and infrared guidance, real time data processing from multiple sensors, and artificial intelligence for decision support. The interceptors' small size highlights their emphasis on modernity and efficiency.
Project Kusha, a key component of India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative, was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in May 2022 and received an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) in September 2023 for five Indian Air Force squadrons at an estimated cost of ₹21,700 crore (roughly US$2.6 billion). Because of its in house development, it is more affordable than similar foreign systems and can be customized to meet India's unique operational needs. Radars and battle management systems are among the vital subsystems that Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is developing. According to reports, the DRDO has finished the design stage and is working on the development of key components. Within 12 to 18 months, a prototype is anticipated, and user trials will follow. By 2028–2029, the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy are expected to be operationally deployed.
Project Kusha holds great strategic importance as it promises to protect vital infrastructure, military installations, and urban areas. Additionally, it establishes India as a prospective exporter of cutting edge defense technology, enhancing its standing in the international defense arena.
