The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently made headlines for successfully testing the Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology. This technology plays a significant role in the indigenous development of long-range air-to-air missiles.
Understanding Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) Technology
SFDR technology is a missile propulsion system grounded on the Ramjet Engine principle. It uses a solid-fueled air-breathing ramjet engine, a noticeable departure from solid-propellant rockets which necessitate oxygen for flight. The Ramjet instead sources oxygen from the atmosphere during flight which results in a lighter weight and allows for more fuel carrying capacity. DRDO initiated the development of SFDR in 2017 and conducted successful tests in 2018 and 2019.
The Significance of SFDR Technology
The successful demonstration of SFDR technology places DRDO on course to develop indigenous long-range air-to-air missiles, a capability currently held by very few countries globally. Air-to-air missiles utilizing SFDR technology perform over longer ranges as they do not need oxidizers, thanks to their ability to source oxygen from the atmosphere. Additionally, the SFDR-based missile’s supersonic speeds and high maneuverability ensure the target aircraft cannot evade it.
Overview of the Defence Research and Development Organisation
The Defence Research and Development Organisation operates under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established in 1958, its roots can be traced back to the amalgamation of the Indian Army’s Technical Development Establishment (TDEs), the Directorate of Technical Development & Production (DTDP), and the Defence Science Organisation (DSO). Its mission is to establish a world-class science and technology base for India, providing Defence Services with internationally competitive systems and solutions. It is accountable for executing the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
Recent DRDO Tests
Some of the recent tests conducted by the DRDO include various missiles and weapons systems like the Helina and Dhruvastra: Anti-tank Guided Missile, Smart Anti Airfield Weapon, Army Variant of MRSAM, Land-attack Version of BrahMos Missile, Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile System, Enhanced Version of Pinaka Mk-1 Missile, and NAG Missile: Anti-Tank Guided Missile.
Understanding Ramjet Technology
A ramjet is a type of air-breathing jet engine that uses the vehicle’s forward motion to compress incoming air for combustion without a rotating compressor. While they perform most efficiently at supersonic speeds, their efficiency dwindles at hypersonic speeds.
Insights into the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme
The IGMDP was established under the guidance of eminent scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam with the aim of achieving self-sufficiency in missile technology. Recognizing the varying missile needs of the defense forces, the program aimed at developing five types of missile systems. The IGMDP received official approval from the Indian government on July 26th, 1983. The missile systems developed under IGMDP include the Prithvi (Short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile), Agni (Intermediate-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile), Trishul (Short-range low-level surface-to-air missile), Akash (Medium-range surface-to-air missile), and Nag (Third generation anti-tank missile).