India's Kusha missile test signals step closer to self-reliance for air defence
India's first test of its indigenously developed Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile system is seen as a milestone in New Delhi's push to strengthen its home-grown air defence network. Developed by the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation, the system is set to become a key part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's plan for a multilayered national defence umbrella.
India carried out the first test of its indigenously developed Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile system, a milestone in the country's effort to bolster its home-grown air defence network.
Developed by the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation, the system is expected to become a key part of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-phase plan for a multilayered national defence umbrella against ballistic missile threats and future conflicts.
Analysts say a successful Kusha program would reduce India's reliance on foreign-made air defence systems against ballistic missile threats. The development comes as regional security tensions rise and neighbouring countries continue to expand their own missile capabilities.
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