DRDO Successfully Tests 'Kusha' Long-Range Missile for Sudarshan Chakra Air Defence Shield
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
DRDO conducted the maiden flight-test of the 'Kusha' long-range surface-to-air missile on July 23, 2026, marking a major step towards India's pan-India air defence shield 'Sudarshan Chakra'. The test successfully intercepted a simulated high-speed, high-altitude aerial threat, showcasing India's growing indigenous defence capabilities.
Background
The 'Kusha' missile is part of India's efforts to build a comprehensive multi-layered air defence system named 'Sudarshan Chakra', aimed at protecting the entire country from aerial threats. DRDO has been developing various missile systems to reduce import dependency and enhance self-reliance in defence technology.
Key facts
DRDO successfully conducted the maiden flight-test of 'Kusha' long-range surface-to-air missile on July 23, 2026.
The test was conducted from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast against an electronic target simulating high-speed and high-altitude aerial threat.
The missile successfully intercepted the target.
'Kusha' can neutralize a wide variety of aerial threats including fighter jets, missiles, UAVs, and large enemy aircraft within a wide range and altitude envelope.
All weapon system elements (missiles, radars, command and control centre) were developed by DRDO laboratories and industry partners.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated the test marks an important milestone in Indian defence R&D and will eliminate import dependency for such systems.
Only a handful of countries possess long-range surface-to-air missile systems like 'Kusha'.
The missile is a key component of the pan-India air defence shield 'Sudarshan Chakra'.
Prelims pointers
- DRDO: Defence Research & Development Organisation
- APJ Abdul Kalam Island: test range off Odisha coast
- Sudarshan Chakra: India's pan-India air defence shield
- Kusha: long-range surface-to-air missile
- Defence Minister: Rajnath Singh
- DRDO Chairman: Rajesh Kumar Singh
- Date of test: July 23, 2026
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of indigenous missile systems like 'Kusha' for India's national security and strategic autonomy.
- Analyze the role of DRDO in achieving self-reliance in defence technology and reducing import dependency.
- Evaluate the challenges and opportunities in developing a multi-layered air defence system like 'Sudarshan Chakra'.