DRDO Conducts Maiden Flight-Test of 'Kusha' Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out the maiden flight-test of its indigenous 'Kusha' Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile on July 23, 2026, from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The trial was conducted against an electronic target simulating a high-speed, high-altitude aerial threat, which the missile system intercepted successfully.

Kusha Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System Features

1. 'Kusha' is designed to neutralise a broad spectrum of aerial threats, fighter jets, missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and large enemy aircraft, across an extensive range and altitude envelope. 
2. Every element of the weapon system, including the missiles, radars, and the command and control center. 
3. It has been indigenously developed by DRDO laboratories in collaboration with industry partners, making it a fully homegrown air defence solution.

Strategic Importance & Impact on India's Air Defence

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called the successful test a major milestone for Indian defence R&D, noting that long-range surface-to-air missile technology is held by only a handful of nations globally. He added that the system will end India's import dependence in this domain and mark a significant leap in the country's air defence capability.

Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh personally monitored the launch activities and congratulated the team behind the achievement.

The successful debut trial of 'Kusha' strengthens India's push toward self-reliance in critical air defence technology, placing the country among the select group of nations capable of developing such long-range missile systems indigenously.