India's Big Plans for Advancing Ramjet-Powered Artillery Shells

Defense News , India :-  India's journey to enhance its artillery capabilities takes a significant stride forward, as recent strides have been made in testing a cutting-edge ramjet-powered artillery shell.

In a recent Southern Command seminar on National Security and Building Bharat, retired Lieutenant General P R Shankar unveiled the latest updates on this ambitious project.

Progress Amidst Challenges

Collaborating with the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and the Army Design Bureau (ADB), India's endeavor has reached a notable milestone with the testing of a 155mm ramjet shell at Balasore last month.

Although the recent test didn't achieve full success, Lt Gen Shankar affirmed that it provided crucial insights for refining the design. The upcoming iteration, expected to be the 10th-12th version, is currently under development and nearing completion.

Building on Past Success

This development follows a triumph in test-firing a half-scaled 76mm ramjet shell prototype at the Deolali firing range six months ago, showcasing the project's initial technological achievements.

Understanding Ramjet Technology

Diverging from conventional artillery shells, ramjet engines utilize airflow to sustain their combustion process. This distinctive feature offers a substantial range advantage, potentially transforming artillery warfare dynamics.

India's ambitious initiative aims to significantly augment artillery firing range while ensuring compatibility with existing howitzer systems.

Defense Implications

The ongoing advancements and the imminent readiness of the next ramjet shell iteration mark a significant positive step for India's defense modernization endeavors.

The successful deployment of this groundbreaking technology could furnish the Indian Army with a considerable tactical edge on the battlefield, potentially reshaping the dynamics of future conflicts.