# India air defence development and exports

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/india-air-defence-development-and-exports
> Updated: 2026-10-01T13:47:43.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

India is expanding its indigenous air defence capabilities through both domestic development and international exports. The Akash surface-to-air missile system has entered a stable production phase and has seen its first major expansion into Central Asia, with Tajikistan and Turkmenistan emerging as buyers following an initial deal with Armenia.

In addition to the Akash system, India has achieved a milestone with the first successful flight-test of the Kusha missile system, also known as the Extended Range Air Defence System (ERADS). Developed by the DRDO, the Kusha system utilizes a three-interceptor architecture designed to defend against aircraft, ballistic missiles, and anti-ship missiles, serving as a component of India’s multi-layered national air defence shield.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-01: India advances indigenous air defence with Kusha and Akash missile milestones

India advances its indigenous air defence with the successful flight-test of the Kusha missile system and the growing international export success of the Akash missile system.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-advances-indigenous-air-defence-with-kusha-and-akash-missile-milestones

### 2026-09-19: India exports Akash missile systems to Tajikistan and Turkmenistan

India has exported its Akash medium-range air defense missile system to Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, expanding its defense footprint into Central Asia.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-exports-akash-missile-systems-to-tajikistan-and-turkmenistan

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Cite as: India air defence development and exports. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/india-air-defence-development-and-exports