SOURCE: AFI
BrahMos Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. (BAPL) has successfully delivered 15 Small Turbofan Engines (STFE), also known as the Manik engine, to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) out of a total order of 35 units. This milestone marks a significant step in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in critical defense technologies, particularly for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and subsonic cruise missiles like the Nirbhay.
Developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a DRDO laboratory, the Manik engine is a 400 kgf thrust-class turbofan engine designed to power advanced unmanned systems and cruise missiles. Compact, efficient, and tailored for subsonic applications, the engine is a key enabler for India’s indigenous defense programs. Its primary applications include the Nirbhay subsonic cruise missile, which has a range of over 1,000 km, and next-generation UAVs designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat roles.
The Manik engine represents a leap forward in India’s aerospace capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign propulsion systems. Its development aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, emphasizing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The engine’s compact design and high-performance characteristics make it suitable for a range of platforms, enhancing India’s operational flexibility in both defensive and offensive scenarios.
The order for 35 engines underscores DRDO’s confidence in BAPL’s production capabilities. The remaining 20 engines are expected to be delivered in phases, enabling DRDO to integrate them into ongoing and future projects. This collaboration highlights the synergy between India’s public and private defense sectors, fostering innovation and scalability in indigenous technology development.
The Manik engine’s integration into the Nirbhay cruise missile is a critical development for India’s strategic arsenal. The Nirbhay, designed to carry conventional and nuclear warheads, provides a cost-effective, long-range strike capability. The successful development and production of the Manik engine ensure that the missile remains fully indigenous, reducing vulnerabilities associated with foreign supply chains.
Beyond the Nirbhay, the Manik engine is poised to power a new generation of UAVs, enhancing India’s capabilities in unmanned warfare. These platforms are vital for modern battlefields, offering real-time intelligence, surveillance, and precision strike options. The engine’s versatility also opens the door for potential applications in other subsonic missile systems, further expanding India’s defense portfolio.
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