New Delhi: India is preparing a major expansion of its long-range air defence network under the Sudarshan Chakra air defence programme. The plan could see the Indian Air Force (IAF) operate up to 10 S-400 squadrons along with 5 indigenous Project Kusha squadrons, creating one of the most powerful layered air defence architectures in Asia.
This long-term strategy aims to strengthen protection against fighter aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missile threats.
What Is the Sudarshan Chakra Air Defence Programme
The Sudarshan Chakra programme is India’s proposed nationwide multi-layered air and missile defence architecture. It seeks to integrate long-range missile systems, advanced radars, command-and-control networks, and indigenous interceptor technologies into a unified shield capable of defending critical military and civilian infrastructure.
Key objectives include:
- Protection against ballistic missiles
- Defence against cruise missiles
- Counter-drone capability
- Long-range aircraft interception
- Integrated real-time threat tracking
- Nationwide air defence coverage
The concept is often compared to advanced missile defence systems deployed by leading military powers, though India’s approach combines imported and indigenous technologies.
Why the IAF Wants More S-400 Systems
India originally signed a deal for five S-400 Triumf squadrons from Russia. Three are already operational, while the fourth squadron has recently arrived and the fifth is expected later.
According to emerging defence assessments, the IAF may require as many as 10 S-400 squadrons to effectively cover India’s vast geographical area and multiple threat axes.
S-400 Advantages
- Engagement range up to 400 km
- Simultaneous tracking of multiple targets
- Capability against aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles
- Rapid deployment and mobility
- Proven long-range interception capability
The S-400 has become a key pillar of India’s long-range air defence network and is often referred to domestically as the “Sudarshan” system.
What is Project Kusha: India’s Indigenous Alternative to S-400
While additional S-400 units can provide immediate capability, India’s long-term strategy relies heavily on Project Kusha, also known as the Extended Range Air Defence System (ERADS). Developed by DRDO and Indian industry partners, the system is intended to provide a home-grown solution for long-range air defence.
Key Features of Project Kusha
- Indigenous design and production
- Multi-layer interceptor architecture
- Engagement ranges up to 400 km
- Network-centric warfare integration
- Reduced dependence on foreign suppliers
The system will use three interceptor classes:
| Interceptor | Estimated Range |
| M1 | 120–150 km |
| M2 | 250 km |
| M3 | 350–400 km |
Sudarshan Chakra Air Defence Programme: Five Project Kusha Squadrons Already Approved
The Indian government has already approved the procurement of five Project Kusha squadrons for the IAF.
Current projections indicate:
- Initial induction between 2028 and 2030
- Gradual deployment across strategic sectors
- Future expansion beyond five squadrons remains possible
These systems are expected to become a central component of India’s future air defence network.
What is the Importance of Sudarshan Chakra Air Defence Programme
The proposed combination of 10 S-400 squadrons and 5 Project Kusha squadrons would create a highly layered defence structure.
Benefits Include
- Greater coverage along northern and western borders
- Improved defence against mass drone attacks
- Enhanced missile interception capability
- Stronger protection for strategic assets
- Increased self-reliance in defence technology
- Better deterrence against regional adversaries
The architecture would also reduce pressure on fighter aircraft by allowing ground-based systems to handle many aerial threats.
