Key Highlights
- On 23 July 2026, the Kusha LR‑SAM launched from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island and engaged a high‑speed electronic target successfully.
- The missile, its radar, and guidance systems all met the mission objectives, validating integrated performance.
- The test underscores India’s indigenous ability to counter aircraft, missiles, UAVs and high‑altitude transport.
Detailed Insights
The flight test, conducted under realistic battlefield conditions, validated the missile’s radar lock‑on, terminal guidance, and fire‑control systems. The low‑altitude yet high‑speed target was intercepted within 3 km of launch, confirming the long‑range engagement envelope.
Deputy Secretary of Defence Rajesh Kumar Singh commended the collaboration among scientists, engineers, and industry partners, highlighting the robust indigenous supply chain that enabled the program.
Key Concepts
Kusha LR‑SAM: A domestically‑designed, long‑range surface‑to‑air missile system capable of targeting a wide spectrum of aerial threats.
Indigenous Development: End‑to‑end creation and manufacturing of all core components within India, minimizing reliance on foreign technology.
Integrated Air Defence: A layered defence system combining missiles, radar and command systems to counter hostile aircraft.
Target Tracking: Capability of onboard sensors and guidance to continuously follow a moving target until impact.
Mission Objectives: Predefined performance criteria—speed, range, hit‑probability—that a test must satisfy for deployment readiness.
