SOURCE: AFI
The Centre for Advanced Systems (CAS) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently hosted a significant workshop on hypersonics to celebrate a major achievement: the completion of 1,000 tests in its Hypersonic Wind Tunnel (HWT). Held on Saturday, the event was not only a testament to India’s progress in hypersonic technology but also a platform for experts to discuss the future of aerospace research.
Led by Dr. Sivasubramaniam Nambi Naidu, a distinguished scientist (DS) and Director of CAS, the workshop gathered scientists, researchers, and innovators to delve into the complexities and advancements of hypersonic testing.
The discussions revolved around:
- Challenges: Addressing the technical difficulties associated with hypersonic speeds, such as thermal management, aerodynamic stability, and material endurance.
- Innovations: Exploring new methodologies for simulation, testing, and material development that can withstand the extreme conditions of hypersonic flight.
- Strategic Importance: The workshop underscored the role of these tests in bolstering India’s hypersonic research ecosystem, which is vital for the development of next-generation aerospace technologies like hypersonic cruise missiles and space vehicles.
The HWT at CAS, inaugurated by the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on December 19, 2020, stands as a beacon of India’s commitment to advanced aerospace research. This facility:
- Simulates Extreme Conditions: Capable of simulating airflow speeds exceeding Mach 5, which is five times the speed of sound, the HWT replicates the harsh conditions of hypersonic flight for testing purposes.
- A Milestone in Indian Aerospace: With the completion of 1,000 tests, the HWT has become a cornerstone for research into high-speed, maneuverable vehicles, providing invaluable data for both military and civilian applications.
- Global Standing: The inauguration of such a facility placed India among a select group of countries with the capability to conduct such high-level testing, enhancing its global aerospace stature.