DRDO flight test of 'Kusha' takes off, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the first flight test of the 'Kusha' Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM).
• The test took place at the APJ Abdul Kalam island off the coast of Odisha.
• The missile system successfully intercepted an electronic target simulating a high-speed, high-altitude aerial threat.
• This indigenous development aims to protect strategic military and civilian assets and reduce India's import dependency for such systems.

Project Kusha.png

Detailed Insights:

• Project Kusha is an indigenous long-range SAM system designed to counter various aerial threats, including fighter jets, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
• A long-range SAM typically has a range exceeding 200 km, with systems like the Russian S-400 Triumf capable of up to 400 km.
• All weapon system elements of 'Kusha', including missiles, radars, and the command and control centre, were developed by DRDO laboratories and industry partners.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that this test is a significant milestone in Indian defence research and development.
• The 'Kusha' system, along with the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), is a major step towards Mission Sudarshan Chakra.
• The IADWS is a multi-layered air defence system comprising Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missiles (QRSAM), Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and a high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW).

Key Concepts Involved:

• Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM): A missile system designed to intercept and destroy aerial targets at extended distances.
• Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS): A multi-layered defense system combining various missile types and technologies to counter diverse aerial threats.
• Directed Energy Weapon (DEW): A weapon system that uses highly focused energy, such as lasers, to damage or destroy targets.
• Mission Sudarshan Chakra: An initiative aimed at developing a comprehensive, home-grown nationwide security shield against multi-domain enemy attacks.