DRDO’s Successful Scramjet Engine Ground Test

January 22, 2025

Recent developments in scramjet technology have marked milestone in India’s defence capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful ground test of a scramjet combustor, showcasing its potential for use in hypersonic missiles. This achievement marks India’s commitment to advancing its military technology and enhancing its strategic defence systems.

What Are Hypersonic Missiles?

Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, or over 5,400 km/h. This is 5 times the speed of sound.
They are designed to bypass current air defence systems, enabling rapid and impactful strikes.
Key nations, including the USA, Russia, and China, are investing heavily in hypersonic technology.

Scramjet Engine Basics

A scramjet, or supersonic combustion ramjet, is an airbreathing engine that combusts fuel in supersonic airflow.
It operates without moving parts, relying on high-speed air to compress incoming air.
This allows for efficient operation at extreme speeds.

Recent Ground Test Details

The DRDO’s recent ground test lasted 120 seconds and demonstrated key capabilities such as successful ignition and stable combustion. This test is very important for the development of next-generation hypersonic missiles.

Ignition Techniques in Scramjets

Ignition in scramjets is challenging, akin to “keeping a candle lit in a hurricane.” Innovative flame stabilisation techniques were developed to maintain continuous combustion at air speeds over 1.5 km/s.

Indigenous Fuel Development

DRDL collaborated with industry to create an indigenous endothermic scramjet fuel. This fuel improves cooling and ignition ease, meeting stringent performance requirements for hypersonic applications.

Thermal Barrier Coating Innovations

A state-of-the-art Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC) has been developed to withstand extreme temperatures during hypersonic flight. This advanced ceramic coating enhances engine performance and longevity.

Significance of the Breakthrough

The successful demonstration of stable combustion and advanced thermal management positions India at the forefront of hypersonic technology. This achievement is important step towards operational hypersonic missiles, enhancing national security.

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