SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
In a significant leap toward next-generation weapon systems, Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO inaugurated the Centre for Electromagnetic Launch Technology (CEMaLT) — a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advanced research and development in Electromagnetic (EM) Railgun technology. The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of senior DRDO leadership, including Prof. Prateek Kishore, Director General (ACE); Dr. Manu Korulla, Director General (R&M); Mrs. Chandrika Kaushik, Director General (PC&SI); and Shri A. Raju, Director of the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE).
CEMaLT has been envisioned as a unique infrastructure to support India’s long-term aspirations in cutting-edge directed energy weapons. The EM Railgun system — unlike conventional guns that rely on chemical propellants — utilizes electromagnetic forces to launch projectiles at hypersonic velocities. This not only eliminates the need for explosive charges but also offers significantly enhanced range, precision, and lethality.
The core objective of CEMaLT is to undertake futuristic research in this field and develop critical sub-systems including pulse power supply, armature design, barrel construction, and thermal management systems. The facility is also geared toward indigenizing key technologies to ensure self-reliance in this high-potential domain.
EM Railgun systems have tremendous strategic potential for both the Indian Army and the Indian Navy. For the Army, these weapons can be employed for long-range precision strikes, especially in mountainous and hostile terrains, where conventional artillery faces limitations. For the Navy, railguns offer a promising solution for shipborne long-range strike capability, defending against incoming aerial threats, or neutralizing high-value targets with unprecedented speed and impact.
With the ability to fire projectiles at speeds exceeding Mach 6 and with pinpoint accuracy, EM railguns could redefine the dynamics of modern combat — reducing reaction times and increasing strike effectiveness.
By establishing CEMaLT, India joins a select group of nations investing in EM launch systems, including the United States and China. The emphasis on developing this capability through DRDO’s indigenous ecosystem highlights India’s push for Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defense technologies.
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