Indian Army Joins DRDO’s Project Kusha Before Interceptor Missile Testing Phase

New Delhi: Project Kusha missile defence system is gaining strong momentum as the Indian Army joins the IAF ahead of crucial Kusha-M1 and Kusha-M2 interceptor missile prototype trials. This move marks a major step in strengthening India’s multi-layered air defence system and reducing reliance on foreign systems like the .

What is Project Kusha Missile Defence System?

Project Kusha is India’s indigenous long-range air defence system being developed by the DRDO. 

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Key purpose:

• Protect India from advanced aerial threats
• Intercept enemy missiles, fighter jets, and drones
• Build a system similar to Russia’s S-400 but made in India

Indian Army Joins the Project Kusha Missile Defence System Program 

The has now officially joined the project along with the IAF.

What this means:

• Better coordination between Army and Air Force
• Unified air defence command planning
• Faster deployment after development
• Wider operational coverage across India

This is a big strategic shift, as earlier the project was mainly led by the Air Force.

Upcoming Kusha-M1 & M2 Missile Trials

India is preparing for prototype flight trials of two key interceptor missiles:

Kusha-M1

• Short-to-medium range interceptor
• Designed to destroy incoming threats at lower altitudes
• First layer of defence shield

Kusha-M2

• Medium-to-long range interceptor
• Can target high-speed aerial threats at greater distances
• Second layer of defence

Next Phase:

• Prototype flight testing
• System validation and tracking performance
• Integration with radar and command systems

How Project Kusha Missile Defence System Strengthens India’s Defence

• Reduces dependence on foreign systems like S-400
• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) in defence
• Enhances multi-layered air defence capability
• Covers long-range threats including ballistic missiles

Strategic Importance for India

• Helps counter regional threats from advanced missile systems
• Strengthens border security
• Improves rapid response capability during conflicts
• Aligns with future warfare technology needs

Read also: Project Kusha: How DRDO is Building India’s Next-Generation Long-Range Air Defence System to Rival S-400