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India to Begin Testing Long-Range Interceptor Missiles Under 'Mission Sudarshan Chakra'

In a significant stride towards enhancing national security, India has launched Mission Sudarshan Chakra, an ambitious initiative aimed at developing an indigenous, multi-layered air and missile defence system by 2035. Unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day address in August 2025, this mission seeks to fortify the nation's defences against evolving aerial threats, including drones, missiles, and aircraft.


Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, unveiled an ambitious national security initiative titled ‘Mission Sudarshan Chakra'.-Representative image | Moneycontrol
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, unveiled an ambitious national security initiative titled ‘Mission Sudarshan Chakra'.-Representative image | Moneycontrol

Project Kusha: The Backbone of Sudarshan Chakra

At the core of Mission Sudarshan Chakra lies Project Kusha, an indigenous programme spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This project focuses on developing long-range surface-to-air missiles (LR-SAMs) to bolster India's defence infrastructure. The project envisions a phased deployment of three missile variants:

  • M1 (MR-SAM): With an interception range of 150 km, the M1 is scheduled for testing in 2026.

  • M2 (ER-SAM): Aimed at intercepting threats at 250 km, the M2 is planned for trials in 2027.

  • M3 (XR-SAM): The most advanced variant, the M3 will target threats at 400 km and is expected to undergo testing in 2028.


The successful development and integration of these systems are anticipated to commence induction into service by 2030.


A Comprehensive Defence Shield

Mission Sudarshan Chakra aims to create a layered defence architecture that integrates various technologies, including advanced radar systems, artificial intelligence, and real-time data-sharing mechanisms. This holistic approach is designed to detect and neutralize a wide array of aerial threats, such as drones, cruise missiles, and hypersonic vehicles, across land, sea, air, and space domains. The system is envisioned to resemble advanced global counterparts like the Russian S-400 and Israel's Iron Dome.


Strategic Implications

The implementation of Mission Sudarshan Chakra is poised to significantly enhance India's strategic autonomy and reduce reliance on foreign defence systems. By developing indigenous technologies, India aims to strengthen its defence preparedness and assert its position as a formidable power in the region. The mission underscores India's commitment to enhancing its indigenous defence technology and reducing reliance on foreign military imports.


Recent Developments

In a significant milestone, the DRDO recently conducted the maiden test of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), named Sudarshan Chakra. This advanced system successfully engaged and neutralized multiple aerial targets, including drones and simulated fighter jets, demonstrating its capability to provide comprehensive protection against modern aerial threats.


Conclusion

Mission Sudarshan Chakra represents a pivotal step in India's pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology. Through initiatives like Project Kusha and the successful testing of advanced defence systems, India is poised to enhance its national security and contribute to regional stability. As the nation progresses towards the 2035 goal, the integration of these advanced systems will play a crucial role in safeguarding India's sovereignty and strategic interests.



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