SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant boost to India’s Indigenous defence production capabilities, the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a key R&D arm of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will be getting Limited scale production of the Small Turbofan Engine (STFE) from Private sector company by early 2026.
The 400-kg thrust class Small Turbofan Engine (STFE) developed by GTRE is specifically designed for subsonic Cruise missiles and UAVs. Subsonic cruise missiles are used to deliver warheads over long distances and can carry either conventional or nuclear warheads. They fly at speeds below the speed of sound, typically around 0.8 Mach and the same engine will also be used on the SwiFT UAVs to serve in various roles, including intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance, making them indispensable for military operations that demand agility, precision, and endurance.
The STFE’s specifications make it suitable for subsonic speeds, where it can effectively deliver the power required for long-endurance flights at lower altitudes, crucial for missions that involve prolonged air time and coverage over expansive terrains. Its compact size and optimized thrust-to-weight ratio make it ideal for integration into a variety of subsonic Cruise missiles and UAV platforms. The engine has undergone extensive testing and validation at GTRE, ensuring it meets the stringent operational requirements set forth by the Indian Armed Forces.
By 2028, with production at full scale, the STFE project is expected to become a mainstay of India’s subsonic Cruise missiles. The ability to produce a reliable and adaptable turbofan engine domestically is a milestone achievement for India’s aerospace sector, showcasing the country’s capacity to develop advanced propulsion systems. This will also contribute to India’s defence exports, strengthening India’s position in the global subsonic Cruise missiles and UAV market.
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