DRDO Achieves Successful Maiden Flight Test of Indigenous Kusha Air Defence System
India reached another milestone in defence technology as DRDO successfully tested the indigenous Kusha air defence missile system, strengthening the country's ability to counter a wide range of aerial threats.
India’s indigenous defence programme recorded a major achievement after the Defence Research and Development Organisation successfully completed the first flight test of the long range air defence missile system known as Kusha. The launch was carried out from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast.
The newly developed missile system is designed to detect and intercept multiple airborne threats, including fighter aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, cruise missiles and other high value aerial targets over extended distances and varying altitudes.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO scientists and engineers, describing the successful test as an important step in strengthening India’s defence research capabilities. He said the achievement reflects the country’s growing expertise in developing advanced missile technology without relying on foreign systems.
Officials noted that only a limited number of countries possess the capability to design and develop long range surface to air missile systems. The successful trial is expected to enhance India’s self reliance in strategic defence and reduce dependence on imported air defence platforms.
The launch activities were monitored by Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh, who appreciated the efforts of the project team for completing the maiden flight test successfully.
Project Kusha is being developed as a next generation indigenous air defence system with multiple interceptor variants offering different engagement ranges. Once operational, it is expected to provide layered protection against modern aerial threats, including advanced aircraft, drones and high speed weapons.
