In News:

The Defence Research and Development Organisation successfully demonstrated Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology from the Integrated Test Range.

What is SFDR Technology?

• SFDR is an advanced air-breathing missile propulsion system that uses a solid fuel gas generator combined with ramjet propulsion.
• It is being developed by Defence Research and Development Laboratory along with other DRDO labs.

How It Works

• The missile is first accelerated to supersonic speed (Mach 2+) using a nozzle-less solid booster.
• Once at high speed, the ramjet engine takes over.
• The system draws oxygen from the atmosphere instead of carrying an oxidiser.
• A solid fuel ducted ramjet motor then produces sustained and controllable thrust throughout the missile’s flight.

Key Subsystems Tested

• Nozzle-less Booster
• Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet Motor
• Fuel Flow Controller

All systems performed as expected during the flight test.

What is a Ramjet?

A ramjet is a jet engine that:

• Has no moving compressor parts
• Uses the missile’s forward speed to compress incoming air
• Works efficiently only at high supersonic speeds

Advantages of SFDR Over Conventional Rockets

Strategic Significance

• Long-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (LRAAM): SFDR will power advanced missiles such as future variants of Astra Mark-3, potentially enabling engagement ranges beyond 150–300 km.
• Expanded “No-Escape Zone”: Sustained propulsion allows high-G manoeuvres near the target, making evasion extremely difficult.
• Elite Technology Club: Places India among a select group of nations possessing advanced ramjet missile propulsion capability.
• Future Surface-to-Air Systems: Technology may be adapted for next-generation SAM systems to counter high-speed cruise or hypersonic threats.