SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to establish a new production facility for the STFE engine (Small Turbomachinery Fan Engine), a critical component used in the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM). The proposed facility will be constructed on DRDO-owned land near the Bangalore Aeronautical Technology Laboratory (BATL) complex at Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
The new facility will play a critical role in bolstering the production of the STFE engine, which is essential for the high-speed and precision capabilities of the ITCM. It will also contribute to reducing dependence on Russian suppliers for key components of India’s missile systems.
While DRDO is establishing the new manufacturing facility for the STFE engine, it has also awarded BrahMos Aerospace a contract for the production of STFE engines in small numbers to facilitate the next phase of user trials for the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile system. BrahMos Aerospace, known for its expertise in high-performance missile systems, will be responsible for producing a limited number of these engines to support the ongoing development and testing of the ITCM.
The STFE engine plays a crucial role in the functioning of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM), which is a highly advanced missile system designed for precision strikes at long ranges. The missile is engineered to carry out strategic strikes with a minimal time lag, maintaining stealth and evading enemy defences. A key component of its advanced capabilities is the STFE, which provides propulsion for the missile, enabling it to maintain its high speed and manoeuvrability during flight.
The STFE engine, being a sophisticated piece of technology, is central to the missile’s performance, giving it both operational effectiveness and efficiency. Currently, India relies on external sources for the supply of engines for various defence applications. The creation of a domestic manufacturing facility for the STFE engine is a step toward achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in the defence sector and will allow the country to produce and control the technology for its missile systems.
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