NEW DELHI: India's Defence Ministry is actively working on the development of an indigenous long-range air defense system with capabilities comparable to the Russian S-400 Triumf system. This initiative is part of Project Kusha, and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been entrusted with the task of creating this advanced defense system.
The LR-SAM (Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile) system is being designed to counter various threats, including stealth fighters, cruise missiles, drones, aircraft, and precision-guided munitions at ranges of up to 350 kilometers. The project received approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security in May 2022 and subsequently received acceptance of necessity (AoN) from the defense ministry in September 2023, with the acquisition cost estimated at Rs 21,700 crore.
The LR-SAM system will feature long-range surveillance and fire control radars, as well as multiple types of interceptor missiles capable of engaging targets at 150 km, 250 km, and 350 km ranges. It is expected to offer robust area air defense with high single-shot kill probabilities for both salvo and single missile launches.
The DRDO believes that this system will effectively engage high-speed, low-radar cross-section targets and has been designed to intercept fighter-sized targets at a range of 250 kilometers. Moreover, it will have the capacity to engage larger aircraft such as AWACS (airborne warning and control systems) and mid-air refuelers at a range of 350 kilometers.
Additionally, the LR-SAM will have the capability to communicate with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) of the Indian Air Force, which is an automated air defense network. This will enhance coordination and communication between the firing units and the broader air defense system.
While the Indian Air Force is primarily responsible for safeguarding India's airspace, the Army and Navy also possess their air defense assets. The Indian Air Force has various weapon systems, including air superiority fighters and ground-based missiles, that are ready for deployment as part of its mission.
In parallel, the Indian Air Force is set to receive the remaining two of the five S-400 Triumf squadrons within the next year, following a delay caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. These S-400 systems are part of a contract worth $5.43 billion signed between India and Russia in 2018.
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