The Defence Research and Development Organisation has introduced the Kusha M3 missile, a hypersonic interceptor with a 400 km range and a highly compact form factor at 1,673 kg, setting new efficiency standards against contemporary systems like Russia’s 40N6E. The Kusha M3 supports a multi-layered air defence architecture and incorporates advanced materials, modular design, dual-pulse solid rocket motors, and an active electronically scanned array radar seeker, ensuring high accuracy and operational flexibility against stealth, ballistic, and hypersonic threats. Designed to intercept aircraft, drones, and ballistic missiles at extreme ranges and altitudes, it features a 450 mm kill vehicle for greater lethality, precision guidance, and rapid response. Fully integrated with existing assets such as Akash, and supported by indigenous technology under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat program, the M3 is scheduled for user trials by 2027 and promises to bolster India’s strategic air defence while reducing logistical and operational burdens.