Indigenous Breakthrough: IIT Madras Develops Ramjet-Powered Artillery Shells, Extending Strike Range to 70 km

In a major boost to India’s defence capabilities and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has successfully developed ramjet-based artillery shells that significantly enhance the range and effectiveness of existing artillery systems without compromising their destructive power.

According to officials, the new technology increases the range of conventional artillery shells by up to 50 percent, allowing Indian Army guns to strike targets as far as 70 kilometres away. Notably, this advancement does not require the induction of new guns or weapon platforms, making it a cost-effective and strategic upgrade for the armed forces.

During trials, the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) demonstrated a remarkable increase in range from 40 km to 70 km. Similarly, the K9 Vajra gun’s range improved from 36 km to 62 km, while the Dhanush artillery gun achieved a range extension from 30 km to 55 km.

How the Technology Works

The innovation lies in integrating a ramjet propulsion system into artillery shells. After being fired from the gun, the shell continues to generate thrust in flight using atmospheric oxygen, enabling it to travel much farther than conventional projectiles. Crucially, the shell maintains stability in the air and retains its original lethality upon impact.

Project Background

The project was initiated in 2020 as a collaborative effort between IIT Madras and the Indian Army. The primary challenges included ensuring the shell could withstand the intense forces during firing, remain aerodynamically stable, and allow the ramjet engine to function efficiently mid-flight. After years of research, development, and testing, the technology has now reached a significant milestone.

Strategic Significance

Defence experts say this development showcases how legacy weapon systems can be modernised using advanced indigenous technology, reducing costs while enhancing battlefield readiness. It also strengthens India’s self-reliance in critical defence technologies at a time of growing regional and global security challenges.

The project was led by Professor P.A. Ramakrishna of IIT Madras, with key contributions from retired senior Army officers and researchers, including Lt Gen P.R. Shankar (Retd), Lt Gen Hari Mohan Iyer (Retd), and several eminent IIT Madras professors and scientists.

This breakthrough is being seen as a game-changer for India’s artillery firepower and a strong message of technological self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing.