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Source: This post “Project Kusha” is based on the article”Desi’ S-400: All about Project Kusha, India’s very own long-range air defence system“published in “The print” on 31st October 2023.
Why in News?
Project Kusha entails operational deployment of India’s own long-range air defense system by 2028-29.
What is Project Kusha?
| Specification | Details |
| What is it? | This indigenous air defense system is designed to detect and destroy a wide array of threats, including stealth fighters, aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and precision-guided munitions at ranges of up to 350 km. |
| Developed by | Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) |
| Aim | It seeks to establish a formidable three-layered defense system with the capability to neutralize enemy aircraft and missiles from extended distances effectively. |
| Estimated Cost | 21,700 crore |
| Key Features | (1) The long range surface to air defence system(LR-SAM) incorporates advance long range surveillance and fire control radars. (2) Interceptor missiles with a range of 150 km, 200 km and 350 km, provide the ability to detect and strike hostile targets at different distances. (3) The firing units of “Project kusha” can be seamlessly integrated with IAF’s air command and control system, facilitating coordination with wide range of military radars. (4) Impressive single shot probability of around 80%. When two missiles are fired consecutively, kill probability rises to 90 percent. |
Why is the significance of ‘Project Kusha’?
(1) Rising Regional security threat from China and Pakistan.
(2) China has accelerated development of indigenous defence capabilities. It has already deployed Russia’s S-400.
(3) China’s close ties with Pakistan has raised concerns about potential China-Pakistan collaboration in strengthening Pakistan defence capabilities against India.
UPSC Syllabus: Science & Technology(Defence)
