IIT-M researchers develop ramjet-propelled artillery shells to increase range of fire
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Defence technology· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Researchers at IIT Madras developed ramjet-propelled artillery shells to increase the range of gun fire by approximately 50% without sacrificing lethality.
Background
The innovation integrates a ramjet engine into existing artillery shells to provide sustained propulsion after launch. The technology was tested and shown to increase the range of systems including the Bofors Ultra Light Howitzer, Dhanush gun system, Vajra, and ATAGS.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TRamjet engines: Provide sustained propulsion to artillery shells after launch to extend range.
- FactThe IIT Madras innovation increases the range of gun fire by about 50%.
- FactCompatible artillery systems include Bofors Ultra Light Howitzer, Dhanush gun system, Vajra, and ATAGS.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how indigenous advancements in propulsion technology and artillery systems contribute to India's strategic autonomy and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in the defence sector.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Technological leap: Integration of ramjet engines to overcome traditional ballistic range limitations
- Strategic autonomy: Reducing reliance on imported long-range artillery components
- R&D synergy: Collaboration between premier academic institutions (IITs) and defence manufacturing
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Propulsion Technology · Indigenous Innovation · Ballistic Range · Atmanirbhar Bharat
More Science & Technology notes
- Solar energy cut grid power consumption by about 46% in government schools, says study · 19 January 2026
- Here are the big stories from Karnataka today · 19 January 2026
- Snake rescues in Telangana increase five fold in 10 years; nearly 50% of snakes rescued in 2025 are spectacled cobras · 19 January 2026
- Anna University partners with the Andhra Pradesh government to develop drone ambulance · 18 January 2026
- 55,000 students to be imparted quantum skilling course in A.P. · 18 January 2026
- Patent for nutraceutical to manage gut health developed by Kerala University researchers · 18 January 2026
Something wrong, or something missing?
Spotted a mistake in a note, or want a topic, format or PDF that would help your preparation? Write to us. We read every mail and fix errors fast.
This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.