“Wankel” engine gets CEMILAC nod to power UAVs

What is Wankel?

India has developed its own propulsion engine for future UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles). The 55-hp engine named “Wankel” is developed by three national research agencies – National Aerospace Labs, Aeronautical Development Establishment, and the Vehicle Research and Development Establishment at the cost of Rs 20 crore. The engine has been certified by the certifying body for military planes CEMILAC (Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification.

Wankel will be used to power the home-grown UAVs Nishant, Lakshya and Rustom-1 and 2 versions used to observe and survey border areas.

The UAV, in its test flights with the engine, reached its targets of 4.5 flying hours and an altitude of 3.6 km.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2013

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs