SFDR Ramjet Technology Tested by DRDO

6 February 20261 min read

Why in the news

DRDO successfully demonstrated SFDR propulsion from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur.

SFDR is an air-breathing system: air supplies the oxygen, solid fuel burns in a regulated way.
Unlike a conventional rocket, it keeps thrust going at supersonic speed and holds energy for the terminal phase.
No onboard oxidiser means more fuel space and longer range.
Continuous thrust allows sharp evasive turns, making interception hard.

Stage	What happens
1. Acceleration	Nozzle-less booster lifts the missile to the required Mach number.
2. Ramjet takeover	Forward motion compresses incoming air; no rotating compressors.
3. Combustion	Solid fuel burns steadily under an indigenous fuel flow control system.
4. Thrust	Steady push keeps the missile fast and manoeuvrable until impact.

Suited to BVRAAMs: long-range engagement, high kill probability, first-strike edge.
Cuts reliance on foreign propulsion, supporting Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

1. Which organisation demonstrated Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology from Chandipur?

The notes state DRDO carried out the SFDR demonstration at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur.

2. In SFDR propulsion, what accelerates the missile to the required Mach number before the ramjet takes over?

A nozzle-less booster handles initial acceleration; ramjet air is compressed by forward motion, not compressors.

3. Why does SFDR give a missile more fuel space and longer range?

As an air-breathing system it uses atmospheric oxygen, so no oxidiser is carried.

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