IIT madras has recorded a significant defence-technology breakthrough with the development of ramjet-assisted artillery shells capable of extending the range of existing gun systems by nearly 50%, without any loss in lethality.The innovation embeds a ramjet engine within a standard 155 mm artillery shell, replacing the conventional base-bleed unit. This enables sustained propulsion after the shell exits the gun barrel, resulting in longer range, deeper strike capability and enhanced operational flexibility — all without the need for new artillery platforms or costly missile systems.
Trials across multiple platforms show substantial range improvements:
• ATAGS: 40 km → ~70 km
• Vajra: 36 km → ~62 km
• Dhanush: 30 km → ~55 km
The project led by Prof. P. A. Ramakrishna, IIT Madras, along with Lt Gen P R Shankar (retd), Prof. H. S. N. Murthy, Prof. G. Rajesh, Prof. M. Ramakrishna, Prof. Murugaiyan, Lt Gen Hari Mohan Iyer (retd), Prof. Lazar C, and Dr Yogesh Kumar Velari was launched in 2020 in collaboration with the Indian Army, the project has undergone extensive gun and field trials at Deolali and Pokhran, successfully validating clean gun exit, stable flight and reliable ramjet ignition.
This work highlights the impact of Atmanirbhar Bharat and demonstrates how upgrading existing systems can deliver cost-effective, survivable and future-ready firepower for modern battlefields.
