Bangalore-based defence and aerospace start-up Hyprix has made history by successfully testing Tezz, India’s first privately developed ramjet engine. This groundbreaking achievement, completed in just five months from design to testing, marks a major leap forward in high-speed propulsion technology and strengthens India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Tezz: A New Era of High-Speed Propulsion
Developed in collaboration with the National Centre for Combustion Research and Development (NCCRD) at IIT Madras, Tezz is a next-generation liquid-fuelled ramjet engine designed to operate at speeds between Mach 2 and Mach 4. Unlike conventional solid rocket motors, ramjets rely on air-breathing propulsion, making them significantly more fuel-efficient, cost-effective, and capable of sustaining high speeds over long distances.
Key Features of Tezz:
- Speed Range: Capable of operating between Mach 2 and Mach 4, enabling faster and more efficient missile and aircraft propulsion.
- High Efficiency: Three to four times more efficient than traditional solid-fuel rockets, allowing for extended range and sustained speed.
- Indigenous Technology: Reduces India’s reliance on foreign propulsion systems, aligning with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
- Scalability: Can be integrated into missiles, cruise weapons, and future high-speed UAVs, boosting India’s strategic capabilities.
Hyprix: A Start-Up with Big Aspirations
Founded in June 2024 by Devmalya Biswas and Divyanshu Mandowara, Hyprix aims to bridge the technology gap in India’s defence sector by developing cutting-edge propulsion systems. The Indian defence industry has long depended on foreign suppliers for advanced ramjet engines, but Tezz’s success signals a shift towards homegrown innovation.
The journey, however, was not without challenges. Skepticism from experts, financial hurdles, and technical complexities made the development process extremely demanding. Many doubted whether a private company could achieve what had traditionally been the domain of government-led defence organizations. Yet, with persistence, innovation, and strong technical expertise, the Hyprix team successfully tested Tezz in January 2025.
Next Mission: Kira-M1 Ramjet Artillery Shell
Following the success of Tezz, Hyprix is now working on Kira-M1, a 155mm ramjet-propelled extended-range artillery shell. This project aims to enhance the firepower and range of Indian artillery systems, addressing a critical shortfall in locally produced precision-guided munitions. Kira-M1 is designed to offer increased accuracy and range, significantly reducing India’s dependence on expensive imported artillery systems.
Paving the Way for India’s Defence Future
Hyprix’s achievements highlight the potential of private start-ups in revolutionizing India’s defence and aerospace sectors. By developing indigenous propulsion solutions, the company is not only strengthening India’s military capabilities but also fostering innovation and high-tech manufacturing within the country.
With Tezz proving its capability and Kira-M1 on the horizon, Hyprix is poised to become a key player in India’s next-generation defence technology ecosystem.
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