New Delhi, Jul 23 (NVI): The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday successfully conducted the maiden flight-test of the indigenous ‘Kusha’ Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) system from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast, officials said.
The missile was tested against an electronic target simulating a high-speed, high-altitude aerial threat and successfully intercepted it, according to the Defence Ministry.
Officials said the ‘Kusha’ missile system is designed to neutralise a wide range of aerial threats, including fighter aircraft, missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and large enemy aircraft over long ranges and at varying altitudes.
The system, including its missiles, radars, command-and-control centre and other components, has been developed by various DRDO laboratories in collaboration with industry partners.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO and associated teams, describing the successful maiden flight-test as a significant milestone in India’s defence research and development.
He said the indigenous system would reduce dependence on imports for long-range air defence capabilities and strengthen the country’s air defence preparedness.
Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh monitored the launch and congratulated the scientists, engineers and industry partners involved in the successful test, the ministry said.—(NVI)
