DRDO Scramjet Engine Test Success: DRDL, Hyderabad, successfully conducted a ground test of a Scramjet Engine for over 1,000 seconds.
Long Duration:This test validates the design of long duration scramjet combustor as well as test facility. The ground-test is in continuation of the earlier test reported for 120 seconds in January 2025. With the successful test, the system will be soon ready for full scale flight worthy combustor testing.
Hypersonic Weapon Advancement: This achievement is a significant milestone in Hypersonic Cruise Missile development, as scramjets are essential for powering these missiles.
Scramjet Technology: Scramjets are air-breathing engines that operate at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5+), using the vehicle’s speed for air compression and enabling supersonic combustion.
Hypersonic Cruise Missiles (HCMs): HCMs, powered by scramjets, fly at lower altitudes and are difficult to intercept due to speed and maneuverability.
Government Support: Raksha Mantri lauded DRDO’s achievement, highlighting the government’s commitment to hypersonic weapon technologies.
Dual use and critical role:Air breathing propulsion systems, having supersonic combustion, plays a critical role for long-duration cruise conditions.
New Testing Facility:Test was conducted at the newly built state-of-the-art Scramjet Connect Test Facility at Hyderabad on April 25, 2025.