The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has drawn considerable attention to Israel's Iron Dome air defense system. Initially thought to be nearly impenetrable, this state-of-the-art rocket defense system faced a severe test on October 7 when Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, launched an onslaught of nearly 5,000 rockets in just 20 minutes.
Despite the odds, the Iron Dome provided significant protection for Israel. Nevertheless, debates persist regarding its overall effectiveness.
While the discussion about the Iron Dome continues, India is actively working on developing its own long-range air defense system, akin to the Iron Dome. This ambitious project, known as Project Kusha, aims to equip India with a robust air defense system capable of detecting and neutralizing incoming threats.
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in India is leading this effort, with deployment planned for 2028-2029. India's Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LR-SAM) system is designed to perform functions similar to the Iron Dome.
This system will be equipped to detect and eliminate a variety of threats, including stealth fighters, aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and precision-guided munitions. It is expected to have a substantial operational range of up to 350 kilometers. According to reports from The Times of India, the LR-SAM will have interception capabilities comparable to the Russian S-400 Triumf air defense system, which the Indian Air Force recently integrated.
The system will utilize long-range surveillance and fire control radars and employ various interceptor missiles capable of hitting hostile targets at distances of 150 kilometers, 250 kilometers, and 350 kilometers.
One remarkable aspect of the LR-SAM is its impressive single-shot kill probability. It is anticipated to achieve an 80 percent or higher success rate for single missile launches and not less than 90 percent for salvo launches.
Furthermore, the system's capability to intercept fighter-sized targets at a range of 250 kilometers and larger aircraft, such as AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control Systems) and mid-air refuelers, at a range of 350 kilometers, makes it a formidable defensive asset. Project Kusha has received approval for funding amounting to approximately Rs 21,700 crore (approximately US$2.6 billion).
This initiative is a collaborative effort between the DRDO and both private and public sector industries. According to the Indian Defense Research Wing, Project Kusha represents a significant milestone in India's journey toward Aatmnirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
India's indigenous version of the Iron Dome is poised to significantly enhance the nation's defense capabilities. Its ability to target hostile forces at varying distances makes it a versatile and formidable defensive asset.
