DRDO successfully tests advanced Ramjet missile technology off Odisha Coast

India has taken a major step forward in advanced missile propulsion with the successful demonstration of Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) off the Odisha coast.

The test was conducted from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur at around 10:45 am on February 3, 2026, placing India among a select group of nations with proven SFDR capability. The technology is critical for the development of long-range air-to-air missiles, significantly enhancing combat effectiveness.

During the flight, the system was first accelerated to the required Mach speed using a booster motor, following which the SFDR propulsion system took over. Key subsystems, including the nozzle-less booster, solid fuel ducted ramjet motor, and the fuel flow controller, functioned precisely as designed.

The performance was closely tracked and validated using multiple advanced tracking and telemetry systems deployed along the Bay of Bengal coastline. Senior scientists from several DRDO laboratories, including the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Research Centre Imarat, and ITR Chandipur, monitored the launch and flight operations.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and its industry partners on the successful demonstration, calling it a significant achievement for India’s defence preparedness.

Also Read: India strengthens rare-earth mineral exploration; Odisha among key states with strategic deposits

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V. Kamat, also lauded the teams involved, praising their contribution to strengthening the country’s indigenous missile development capabilities.

The successful SFDR test further reinforces Odisha’s strategic importance in India’s defence research and missile testing ecosystem, with Chandipur continuing to serve as a key launch and evaluation facility.