India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing Project Kusha, a long-range surface-to-air missile system aimed at bolstering India’s air defense capabilities against threats from Pakistan and China. This initiative, often compared to Russia’s S-400 and S-500 systems, includes four interceptor variants: the M1 (150 km range) for tactical threats, the M2 (250 km) for medium-range targets, the M3 (350-400 km) for high-value aircraft and ballistic missiles, and a naval variant designed to counter anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs) with ranges of 200-300 km. The system’s design incorporates indigenous technology, with advanced long-range surveillance and fire control radars capable of detecting threats from 500 km away, enhancing India’s multi-layered air defense architecture. Project Kusha’s development is a strategic response to regional security challenges, underscoring India’s commitment to maintaining air superiority and deterrence against hostile neighbors. By integrating these capabilities into the Indian Air Force and Navy, India aims to ensure that any aerial threats are neutralized well before they reach Indian airspace, thereby reinforcing its defense posture in a complex geopolitical landscape.