In a major boost to India’s Atmanirbharta in defence, the Indian Army is poised to become the world’s first military force to deploy ramjet-powered 155 mm artillery shells, a breakthrough that will increase the range of existing artillery ammunition by 30–50 per cent without compromising lethality.
The cutting-edge technology is being developed in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology Madras, under a project sanctioned by the Army Technology Board (ATB). Once inducted, the innovation will significantly enhance the firepower, reach, and battlefield flexibility of the Indian Army’s artillery regiments.
How the Ramjet-Powered Shell Works
Explaining the concept, Prof. P. A. Ramakrishna from IIT Madras’ Department of Aerospace Engineering said that a ramjet is an air-breathing engine that does not require turbines or compressors. Instead, it relies on the shell being launched to high speed—around Mach 2—using an artillery gun.
At that speed, incoming air is compressed naturally, fuel is ignited, and thrust is generated, allowing the shell to sustain propulsion during flight, dramatically extending its range.
Crucially, the ramjet unit can be retrofitted onto existing 155 mm shells, enabling rapid induction without requiring new gun systems.
Successful Trials at Pokhran
The ramjet-assisted artillery shell has already undergone successful developmental trials at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan and continues to be refined through advanced testing. Once fully matured, the technology can be integrated with any 155 mm artillery gun in the Indian Army’s inventory.
This includes ultra-light and towed systems such as the M777 howitzer, providing enhanced long-range strike capability across varied terrains—from mountains to deserts.
Strategic Impact on Artillery Warfare
The Indian Army’s artillery modernisation drive has focused on longer range, higher precision, and improved lethality. The ramjet-powered shell aligns perfectly with this vision by:
- Extending artillery reach deep into enemy territory
- Enhancing precision strike capability
- Reducing dependence on rockets for medium-range targets
- Strengthening deterrence along contested borders
India currently fields artillery guns across multiple calibres—105 mm, 122 mm, 130 mm, and 155 mm—with the 155 mm calibre forming the backbone of modern medium artillery. The new shell will give these guns a game-changing edge.
A Global First
While ramjet propulsion is already used in advanced missiles, its application in artillery ammunition is unprecedented at this scale. Defence experts say the Indian Army’s success could redefine global artillery doctrines, positioning India as a leader in next-generation gun-launched munitions.
Once inducted, the ramjet-powered 155 mm shell will stand as a landmark achievement—combining indigenous innovation, academic collaboration, and battlefield relevance, and reinforcing India’s march towards self-reliant military power.
