In a significant advancement for India’s defense capabilities, the Indian Army is set to become the first military force globally to deploy ramjet-powered 155 mm artillery shells. This innovative development promises to enhance the range of current artillery ammunition by 30 to 50 percent, all while maintaining lethal effectiveness.
The cutting-edge technology is being pursued in partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, following a project green-lit by the Army Technology Board (ATB). The introduction of these ramjet-powered shells is expected to greatly improve the firepower, operational reach, and battlefield adaptability of the Indian Army’s artillery divisions.
### Mechanism of the Ramjet-Powered Shell
The ramjet system functions as an air-breathing engine that eliminates the need for turbines or compressors. According to Prof. P. A. Ramakrishna from IIT Madras’ Department of Aerospace Engineering, the crucial aspect of the ramjet lies in its operation; it becomes effective when a shell is launched at high speeds—approximately Mach 2. As the shell travels at this speed, ambient air is naturally compressed, igniting fuel and generating thrust, which in turn sustains propulsion during the flight. This mechanism allows for a remarkable extension in the projectile’s range.
Notably, the ramjet unit can be integrated into existing 155 mm shells, facilitating a swift induction process without necessitating the acquisition of new artillery systems.
### Successful Trials at Pokhran
The development phase has seen successful trials of the ramjet-assisted artillery shell at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. Ongoing testing is set to further refine this innovative technology. Once fully operational, it can be integrated with any 155 mm artillery gun within the Indian Army’s existing arsenal, including lightweight and towed systems like the M777 howitzer. This integration promises enhanced long-range strike capabilities across diverse terrains, from rugged mountains to arid deserts.
### Strategic Advantages in Artillery Warfare
The Indian Army’s modernization efforts are focused on achieving greater range, precision, and lethality in artillery operations. The introduction of the ramjet-powered shell complements this strategy by:
– Expanding the operational reach deep into adversarial territory
– Improving the accuracy of strike capabilities
– Decreasing reliance on rockets for medium-range targets
– Enhancing deterrence along sensitive border regions
India employs artillery across various calibers—105 mm, 122 mm, 130 mm, and 155 mm—with the 155 mm caliber serving as the backbone of modern artillery. The new ramjet technology is expected to provide these systems with a transformative advantage.
### A Milestone in Global Artillery Capabilities
While ramjet propulsion technology has been employed in advanced missile systems, its integration into artillery ammunition of this scale marks a historic first. Defense analysts suggest that the success of the Indian Army’s initiative could transform global artillery strategies, positioning India at the forefront of next-generation, gun-launched munitions.
Once deployed, the ramjet-powered 155 mm shell is anticipated to be a landmark achievement, embodying a blend of indigenous design, academic collaboration, and battlefield effectiveness. This initiative reflects India’s ongoing commitment to bolstering its self-reliant military capabilities.
