DRDO’s ‘Kusha’ Air Defence System Targets 400 km Coverage
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on a sophisticated indigenous air defence system named Kusha, featuring three variants that will collectively offer a layered defence against a spectrum of aerial threats. The system is scheduled for trials beginning in 2025, with full induction planned between 2028 and 2030.
Kusha M1: Tactical Short-Range Variant
The Kusha M1 is designed to neutralize low-altitude threats such as drones, loitering munitions, and unmanned aerial vehicles. It will replace outdated air defence guns like the L70 and ZU-23-2B. With a proposed range of around 150 km, it will serve frontline tactical formations. Ground testing is expected to begin by September 2025, with induction likely by 2028.
Kusha M2: Mid-Range Missile Defence
The M2 variant is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system intended to replace the ageing Pechora platform. It is expected to offer coverage up to 250 km and protect vital military installations and strategic assets. Trial phases are set to begin in 2026.
Kusha M3: Long-Range Shield
At the strategic end of the spectrum, Kusha M3 is being designed to intercept high-speed threats including cruise missiles, stealth aircraft, and airborne warning and control systems (AWACS) at ranges of up to 350–400 km. It will complement existing systems such as Akash-NG and possibly rival capabilities of imported systems like the S-400. Trials are expected around 2027 with operational deployment by 2030.
A Unified, Indigenous Air Defence Network
All three Kusha variants are designed with a high degree of indigenous content—over 90%—and share key components such as the kill vehicle. This commonality will simplify maintenance and logistics while enhancing operational synergy. The Kusha family will integrate seamlessly with India’s existing command and control networks including the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) and Akashteer.
This comprehensive system offers:
- M1 for mobile battlefield coverage
- M2 for regional defence
- M3 for long-range strategic airspace protection
