India's first test of the Kusha long-range surface-to-air missile (LRSAM) system is being seen as a landmark step toward self-reliance in air defence, with analysts describing it as a critical building block of Sudarshan Chakra — Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-phase mission to erect a multilayered national defence umbrella against ballistic missiles, fighter aircraft, drones, and other aerial threats by 2035, according to a media report published on 9 August.

What the Kusha Test Signals

The test is widely regarded as a milestone that could reshape India's home-grown air defence network, according to the report. Air Marshal Ravi Gopal Krishna Kapoor (retd) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) was cited as saying that Kusha's domestic origin makes integration into the existing air defence architecture significantly more straightforward than imported alternatives.

'The threats are multiplying with the proliferation of drones and missiles, further complicated by fifth-generation fighters. The best way of air denial is to have a robust integrated multilayered air defence system capable of detecting, identifying, engaging and destroying intruders,' Kapoor said, according to the report.

Kusha's Role in the Layered Defence Framework

According to Kapoor, Kusha is envisioned as a complement to Russia's S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems, forming the outermost layer of India's air defence shield. Shorter-range systems such as the domestically developed Akash missile would constitute the inner layer — creating a staggered, overlapping defensive envelope.

Notably, Kapoor also pointed to a limited offensive dimension, suggesting Kusha could be used to prevent adversaries from launching their weapons — a capability that reportedly drew attention during Operation Sindoor. He cited the need to counter modern platforms such as Chinese next-generation advanced fighters equipped with long-range air-to-air missiles.

Strategic and Economic Case for Indigenous Development

Srinivasan Balakrishnan, Director of Strategic Engagements and Partnerships at the Indic Researchers Forum, a New Delhi-based security think tank, argued that domestic control over Kusha's production, maintenance, and software would substantially reduce India's vulnerability to foreign supply chain disruptions — a concern that has grown more acute in recent years.

Balakrishnan estimated that Kusha could cost roughly half of what comparable imported systems would, while providing deterrence against fighter jets, cruise missiles, and drones. 'Without Kusha, Sudarshan Chakra would remain incomplete. With it, India gains the backbone needed for nationwide coverage of both strategic and civilian assets,' he said, as quoted in the report.

What Comes Next for Sudarshan Chakra

The Kusha test marks one phase of a broader, two-phase national air defence mission that aims to achieve full multilayered coverage by 2035. Defence analysts expect further trials and phased induction to follow, with the system's eventual deployment intended to plug the gap between India's long-range S-400 batteries and its medium-range Akash squadrons. The trajectory of Sudarshan Chakra will be closely watched as India continues to navigate complex security dynamics on both its western and northern frontiers.