India conducts maiden flight test of ‘Kusha' long-range SAM

The ‘Kusha' long-range surface-to-air missile launches from a vertical-launch system during its maiden flight test. (PIB)

India's state-owned Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted the maiden flight test of its ‘Kusha' long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM).

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) said on 23 July that the test was conducted against an electronic target simulating a “high-speed and high-altitude aerial threat” at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the northeastern coast of Odisha. The MoD added that the electronic target was “successfully intercepted by the missile system”.

According to the MoD, the ‘Kusha' missile system is intended to engage aerial threats including combat aircraft, missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and large airborne platforms. However, it did not disclose details of the system's range or performance.

Janes analysis of imagery released by the MoD indicates that the missile features a cylindrical fuselage topped by a pointed nose cone, possibly indicating the presence of a radome housing a guidance seeker.

The missile appears to incorporate three separate sets of aerodynamic control surfaces along the airframe. Small forward control surfaces are positioned immediately aft of the nose section, while a second set of smaller fins is located around the missile's mid-body. Larger cruciform tail fins are fitted at the aft section close to the propulsion system.

The missile appears to employ a vertical-launch configuration. The exhaust plume visible upon missile exit from the launcher indicates a hot-launch method, in which the main propulsion system ignites within, or immediately after leaving, the launch canister.

A visible change in fuselage geometry in the lower section of the missile may indicate separate propulsion or structural stages.

For more, please see: India conducts maiden flight test of NASM-MR anti-ship missile