India successfully tested revolutionary missile technology that dramatically extends the range of air-launched weapons. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) demonstrated Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology, a major breakthrough that positions India among a few nations capable of developing next-generation, long-range air-to-air missiles.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and the Indian defense industry for the achievement, calling it a “proud moment for the nation.” He said the success reinforces India’s position as a leading military power in advanced missile technologies.
The high-stakes test was conducted on February 3 at 10:45 AM from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, along the Bay of Bengal coast. According to the Ministry of Defence, the demonstration will enhance India’s strategic air superiority, enabling long-range targeting of potential adversaries.
During the test, every subsystem performed flawlessly. This included the nozzle-less booster, solid fuel ducted ramjet motor, and fuel flow controller. Initially, the missile was accelerated to the required Mach number using a ground booster. After that, the SFDR system took over, maintaining precise propulsion and fuel flow. Performance data from advanced tracking instruments confirmed that all systems worked as planned.
Senior scientists from multiple DRDO laboratories, including the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Research Centre Imarat (RCI), and ITR, closely monitored the launch. Their coordinated effort ensured a comprehensive evaluation of the missile’s performance.
This successful test demonstrates that India has mastered revolutionary missile technology that dramatically extends the range of air-launched weapons. Experts say the SFDR system will significantly strengthen India’s defense capabilities. The achievement marks a new milestone in the country’s ongoing pursuit of self-reliant and cutting-edge military technology.
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India continues to advance its missile development programs. With this test, the nation joins an elite group of countries capable of designing and deploying next-generation air-to-air weapons, further boosting strategic deterrence and air defense preparedness.
