India tests scramjet engine for over 1,000 seconds in hypersonic technology leap
In a significant step towards the development of the next-generation station hypersonic missiles, India has successfully carried out a ground test of the Scramjet engine for more than 1,000 seconds.Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), a Hyderabad-based laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved this significant milestone in the field of Hypersonic Weapon Technology.DRDL conducted long-duration Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor ground testing for more than 1000 seconds duration at the newly built state-of-the-art Scramjet Connect Test Facility (SCPT) in Hyderabad on April 25, 2025.The ground test conducted is in continuation of an earlier test reported for 120 seconds in January 2025. "With today's successful test, the system will soon be ready for full-scale flight-worthy combustor testing," DRDO said.advertisement
The Hypersonic Cruise Missile (HCM) is a class of weapon capable of sustained flight at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound (>6,100 kmph), powered by an air-breathing engine. Supersonic combustion in air-breathing propulsion systems plays a crucial role in maintaining long-duration cruise conditions.The recent test successfully validated the design of a long-duration scramjet combustor and the associated test facility. This achievement is the result of a collaborative effort involving DRDO laboratories, industry partners, and academic institutions, and marks a significant milestone in advancing India's Hypersonic Cruise Missile Development Programme, according to DRDO.Defence Minister Rajnath Singh complimented DRDO, industry partners and academia for the achievement and stated that today's success reflects India's strong commitment to realising critical Hypersonic Weapon Technologies for the nation.Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat congratulated Director General (MSS) U Raja Babu, Director DRDL Dr GA Srinivasa Murthy and the whole team for demonstrating supersonic combustion for more than 1000 seconds involving cutting-edge technologies.advertisement
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