DRDO test-fires ramjet propulsion system that powers next-gen missiles
DRDO has pulled off a successful test of its Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) propulsion system—think of it as the engine behind faster, longer-range missiles.
The test happened on February 3, 2026, in Odisha, and everything worked smoothly: an initial ground booster accelerated the system to the desired speed, after which the SFDR/ramjet sustainer operated as expected.
What is SFDR?
Instead of carrying heavy oxidizers, SFDR uses solid fuel plus oxygen from the air, making missiles lighter and able to sustain supersonic speeds for over three minutes at high altitudes.
Its air intakes and a hot-gas valve made with advanced materials support operation at high temperatures.
SFDR will power missiles like Astra Mk3
This tech powers next-gen missiles like Astra Mk3, and SFDR-equipped missiles are expected to achieve ranges of up to about 350km and speeds up to around Mach 3-3.8.
Developed by Indian labs in Hyderabad and Pune, with reported Russian assistance, SFDR means less reliance on imported missile systems—so India's defense gets smarter and more self-reliant.