India’s own Iron Dome

Current Context : India is manufacturing its own long-range air defence system (Iron Dome) and plans to deploy it by 2028-2029.

• The system is being developed by DRDO under the ambitious Project Kusha.

ABOUT PROJECT KUSHA

• Project Kusha’ is set to provide the Indian Air Force (IAF) with a long-range air defence
• Aim : to detect and destroy various hostile targets, including cruise missiles, stealth fighter jets, and drones at extended ranges.
• The ambitious indigenous project will be developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at an estimated budget of Rs 21,700 crore.
• Drawing parallels with Israel’s renowned Iron Dome system, ‘Project Kusha’ is expected to not only match but potentially surpass the capabilities of its Israeli counterpart.

KEY FEATURES:

• The long-range surface-to-air defence system (LR-SAM) incorporates advanced long-range surveillance and fire control radars, which empower the IAF to effectively monitor airspace and fend off enemy threats.
• Interceptor missiles, with ranges of 150 km, 200 km and 350 km, provide the ability to detect and strike hostile targets at different distances.
• It will also be effective in providing strategic and tactical cover.
• The system reportedly has a single-shot kill chance of at least 80% and over 90% when two missiles are fired after each other.
• The firing units of ‘Project Kusha‘ can seamlessly integrate with the IAF’s air command and control system, facilitating coordination with a wide range of military radars.