New Delhi – In a strategic move to enhance India’s air defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to procure a Ground Mobile Launcher (GML) specifically for the M1 missile under the Precision Guided Long Range Surface to Air Missile (PGLRSAM) program. This development is part of Project Kusha, aimed at bolstering India’s long-range air defense systems.
Advancing Project Kusha
Project Kusha, also known as the Extended Range Air Defence System (ERADS), is a comprehensive program to develop an indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile system. The M1 missile, with a range of 150 km, is among the first of three proposed interceptor missiles in this project, designed to bridge the gap between existing medium-range and long-range air defense systems like the MR-SAM and S-400.
Capabilities of the M1 Missile
The M1 missile is engineered to engage aerial threats at long ranges, offering significant improvements in both range and precision over previous systems. With the integration of advanced radar and control systems, the M1 is expected to provide a robust defense against a variety of aerial threats, including stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
The Ground Mobile Launcher
The procurement of the Ground Mobile Launcher for the M1 missile signifies an important step in making the missile system operationally viable. The GML will allow for rapid deployment, mobility, and flexibility in positioning, crucial for countering dynamic threats across India’s vast and diverse geography. The launcher system is designed to be transportable, facilitating quick response times in various operational scenarios, from coastal defense to protecting key strategic installations inland.
Strategic Implications
This procurement aligns with India’s broader strategy of self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. By developing and deploying indigenous systems like the PGLRSAM, India aims to reduce dependency on foreign military hardware, enhance its strategic autonomy, and ensure that its defense forces are equipped with systems tailored to national security needs.
Future Prospects
With the fabrication of the M1 missiles expected to commence soon and trials slated for early 2025, the integration of the Ground Mobile Launcher will be pivotal. The successful deployment of this system would not only increase India’s defensive capabilities but also serve as a deterrent against potential aerial threats from neighboring countries or non-state actors.
The DRDO’s move to procure the Ground Mobile Launcher for the M1 missile of PGLRSAM underscores a significant leap towards achieving a layered and formidable air defense system. As Project Kusha progresses, it will play a crucial role in shaping India’s defense landscape, ensuring the nation’s skies remain secure and its military strategy robust in the face of evolving aerial threats.