IIT Madras Innovates Ramjet Artillery Shells, Extends Gun Range by 50%
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has made a significant advancement in indigenous defense technology by developing ramjet-assisted artillery shells. These new shells can increase the range of existing gun systems by up to 50 percent without losing their effectiveness.
This breakthrough involves the incorporation of a ramjet engine into standard 155 mm artillery shells, replacing the traditional base-bleed unit. Unlike conventional artillery, which depends solely on initial muzzle velocity, this new technology provides ongoing propulsion once the shell leaves the gun barrel, thereby extending its range considerably.
Reports from IIT Madras indicate that the ramjet-assisted shells have shown significant improvements in range for various key Indian artillery platforms:
| Artillery System | Original Range | Enhanced Range |
|---|---|---|
| ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System) | ~40 km | ~70 km |
| K9 Vajra-T | ~36 km | ~62 km |
| Dhanush Artillery Gun | ~30 km | ~55 km |
The notable improvement in range is achieved without modifying the gun systems themselves, demonstrating the potential for ammunition-focused enhancements to significantly boost battlefield capabilities.
The initiative, which began in 2020, was developed in partnership with the Indian Army and has undergone numerous successful gun and field tests. These trials confirmed several aspects including clean and safe gun exit, stable mid-course flight, and reliable ramjet ignition with sustained propulsion. The outcomes affirm the practical application of ramjet-assisted projectiles in real-world combat situations.
This development is in line with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, highlighting the advantages of upgrading existing weaponry instead of replacing them. By substantially increasing range, this new ammunition type also improves crew safety by allowing artillery units to operate further from potential enemy counterattacks.
The project was spearheaded by P A Ramakrishna and involved critical contributions from a diverse team, including P R Shankar, Hari Mohan Iyer, and senior IIT Madras faculty members such as HSN Murthy, G Rajesh, M Ramakrishna, Murugaiyan, Lazar C, and Dr Yogesh Kumar Velari.
Defense experts view this development as a transformative shift for Indian artillery strategy. The integration of long-range capabilities with existing gun platforms through ramjet-assisted shells could greatly enhance deep-strike potential, reduce logistical demands, and bolster deterrence in future high-intensity military engagements.
