SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone in its cruise missile program with the successful development of the Manik engine. This small turbofan engine, produced by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), is a key element that was missing for the indigenous development of low-cost subsonic cruise missiles.
The Manik engine, with a thrust of 4.5 kN, has undergone extensive testing and is nearing the end of its development phase. This paves the way for mass production, which is expected to last for the next 20 years or so.
According to a DRDO official speaking anonymously told idrw.org, the organization has already contracted with Godrej Aerospace for domestic manufacturing of the Manik engine in limited numbers. This marks a first for the private sector company, and the potential order volume is substantial.
DRDO estimates a requirement of around 3,000 units over the next 20-25 years. This figure could be broken down into many variants since DRDO plans to integrate the engine into various cruise missile variants, including land-launched, air-launched, ship-launched, and submarine-launched versions.
DRDO’s ambitions don’t stop there. They are already exploring the development of a detuned version of the Manik engine for stealthy air-launched cruise missile programs and potentially for unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs).
This indigenous engine production is a major step forward for India’s defence sector. It reduces reliance on foreign technology and paves the way for a more self-sufficient military. The Manik engine’s long production run also signifies a significant order for Godrej Aerospace, solidifying its position in India’s aerospace industry.
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