Why in the News?
Defence Research & Development Organisation successfully demonstrated Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology on February 03, 2026 from Integrated Test Range, marking India’s entry into an elite group of nations with this advanced missile propulsion capability.
About Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR)
- An advanced air breathing propulsion system for long range air to air missiles
- Uses solid fuel with controlled airflow for sustained thrust
- Allows missiles to maintain high speed during terminal phase
- Significantly increases range and no escape zone
Key Highlights of the Test
- All subsystems including nozzle less booster, SFDR motor and fuel flow controller performed as expected
- Missile was boosted to the required Mach number before ramjet ignition
- Performance validated through tracking instruments along the coast of the Bay of Bengal
- Successful data capture confirmed stable combustion and thrust control
Strategic Significance
- Enables development of next generation long range air to air missiles
- Provides major tactical advantage against hostile aircraft
- Strengthens indigenous defence research and manufacturing
- Reduces dependence on imported propulsion technologies
| [2023] Consider the following statements: 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight
2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
