Ramjet-powered 155mm artillery shell to be operational soon; historic achievement for Indian army

India’s attempt at 'self-reliance' in terms of military technology is showing improvement in its training and operations. As part of this, preparations for using 155 millilitre artillery shells using Ramjet technology are also nearing the final stage. If implemented, the Indian Army will become the first army in the world to use artillery shells using Ramjet power. This will increase the strike range by 30 to 50 per cent.

The plan is to develop more accurate long-range rockets and shells. It is in this context that the Ramjet-assisted artillery shells were zeroed in. IIT Madras developed this in collaboration with the Indian Army. The project has been approved by the Army Technology Board.

Ramjet is an engine that collects oxygen from the air. It does not require a compressor or turbine. But a speed of at least Mach 2 is requisite to start working. So, it is required that the speed be achieved using a cannon or a rocket. Then it absorbs air and burns fuel to create thrust.' - Professor PA Ramakrishnan, Department of Aerospace Engineering, IIT Madras, explained the workings of a Ramjet.

Ramjet-assisted shells are currently undergoing testing under the leadership of IIT Madras and have reportedly been successfully tested at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.