SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a groundbreaking development, idrw.org has learned from well-placed sources within India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) that a spin-off program from the Astra Mk-III missile, now renamed Gandiva, is paving the way for a next-generation stealth air-launched cruise missile (ALCM). This ambitious project aims to leverage the cutting-edge Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology, an air-breathing jet engine based on ramjet principles, to develop a long-range, Air Launched supersonic cruise missile designed to be nearly impervious to interception.
According to sources, the concept for this stealth ALCM is still in its preliminary stages, but it builds on established SFDR technology, which has already shown promise in enhancing missile performance. The SFDR propulsion system, which uses atmospheric oxygen to sustain combustion, allows for sustained high speeds over extended ranges while reducing the missile’s overall weight and volume compared to conventional rocket motors. This efficiency is critical for achieving a low radar cross-section (RCS), a defining characteristic of stealth technology, making the missile harder to detect and track.
The proposed stealth ALCM is envisioned as a long-range standoff weapon, enabling fighter jets to launch precise attacks from a safe distance, minimizing risk to the launch platform. Unlike many existing stealth cruise missiles, which typically operate at subsonic speeds for greater fuel efficiency, the SFDR-powered missile would travel at supersonic speeds, significantly reducing the window for enemy air defence systems to respond. This capability is particularly vital for penetrating advanced air defence networks, such as those equipped with sophisticated radar and interception systems.
The use of SFDR technology offers multiple advantages for stealth applications. By relying on atmospheric oxygen, the propulsion system reduces the missile’s size and weight, enabling a more aerodynamically efficient design that aligns with stealth requirements. A smaller, lighter missile is inherently easier to engineer for low observability, minimizing its radar signature. Additionally, ramjet engines like the SFDR may produce a different thermal signature compared to traditional rocket motors, potentially lowering the missile’s infrared detectability if designed with appropriate heat management systems.
While current stealth cruise missiles, such as those powered by turbofan or turbojet engines, prioritize subsonic efficiency, the DRDO’s exploration of SFDR technology signals a shift toward faster, more elusive systems. The ability to maintain supersonic speeds over long ranges could redefine the role of cruise missiles in modern warfare, offering a potent tool for neutralizing high-value targets deep within enemy territory.
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