SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Air Force (IAF), which previously ordered five squadrons of the Russian S-400 Triumf air defense system, has clarified that it has no current plans to locally manufacture these systems. Instead, the IAF has shifted its focus to an indigenous initiative, Project Kusha, which aims to develop 10 squadrons of advanced long-range interceptor missiles. This strategic pivot comes amid delayed deliveries of the remaining two S-400 squadrons from Russia, as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to disrupt global defense supply chains.
India’s acquisition of the S-400 system from Russia was considered a significant milestone in strengthening its air defense capabilities. The S-400 is one of the most advanced long-range air defense systems in the world, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, fighter jets, and other aerial threats at distances of up to 400 kilometers. Despite receiving three out of the five ordered squadrons, Russia’s delivery of the remaining two squadrons has been delayed due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has strained Russia’s defense production and supply capabilities.
According to IAF officials who spoke to idrw.org, the Indian Air Force has no plans to pursue local manufacturing of the S-400 systems. This decision reflects a shift in priorities, as India seeks to reduce its dependency on foreign defense technology and focus on indigenous development through Project Kusha.
Project Kusha, spearheaded by India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is a highly ambitious program aimed at developing an advanced air defense system that will provide India with a robust, indigenous alternative to foreign systems like the S-400. Under this project, three types of long-range interceptor missiles are currently in development, each designed to counter a wide array of aerial threats.
The Project Kusha system is envisioned to serve as the backbone of India’s air defense network, with 10 squadrons planned for induction into the IAF. These squadrons will be equipped with long-range interceptor missiles capable of neutralizing threats at multiple altitudes, offering India a layered and comprehensive air defense shield. The program underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technologies under the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
In addition, the S-400 procurement from Russia was met with geopolitical challenges, particularly with the potential threat of U.S. sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). Although India has avoided sanctions thus far, the IAF’s pivot to Project Kusha may mitigate such risks in the future by reducing reliance on Russian technology.
Details regarding the specific capabilities of the Project Kusha interceptor missiles remain classified, but reports suggest that the three missile system will be designed to tackle a wide range of threats, including cruise missiles, fighter aircraft, and ballistic missiles. The long-range interceptor missiles being developed under this program are expected to feature advanced radar systems, multi-target engagement capabilities, and robust electronic countermeasures to operate effectively in a modern, contested airspace environment.
The progress of Project Kusha has been steady, with developmental trials expected to begin in the near future. Once operational, the indigenous system will complement India’s existing air defense assets, which include the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system, the MR-SAM, and the recently inducted S-400 systems.