What is a ramjet missile?
Ramjets are typically paired with a solid rocket motor or turbojet engine to provide initial thrust before transitioning to ramjet operation at higher speeds. Ramjets are efficient at supersonic speeds and are often used in high-speed missiles and experimental vehicles. A ramjet can theoretically be started at speeds as low as 100 knots but it does not start to produce any significant thrust until the airspeed reaches approximately mach 0. Even at this speed, efficiency is very low and peak efficiency will not be attained until reaching supersonic speeds in the realm of mach 3.Ramjets work most efficiently at supersonic speeds around Mach 3 (2,300 mph; 3,700 km/h) and can operate up to Mach 6 (4,600 mph; 7,400 km/h). Ramjets can be particularly appropriate in uses requiring a compact mechanism for high speed, such as missiles.
Does India have scramjet missile?
In a major boost to India’s hypersonic missile development programme, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted an extensive long-duration ground test of an actively cooled full-scale scramjet combustor. The DRDO’s new long-range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Glide Missile, with a 1500 km range, will be showcased. This advanced weapon system highlights India’s growing self-reliance in defence technology. Other defence assets will also be featured, underscoring India’s military prowess.
Is BrahMos a ramjet or scramjet?
While the BrahMos is a medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarine, ships, aircraft, or land. It is the fastest supersonic cruise missile in the world. The BrahMos-II program, jointly pursued by India and Russia under BrahMos Aerospace, was originally conceived as a scramjet-powered hypersonic cruise missile capable of sustained speeds approaching Mach 8, equivalent to approximately 9,800 km/h.BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd, an India-Russian joint venture, produces the supersonic cruise missiles that can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or land platforms.The BrahMos (also designated as PJ-10) is a long-range, ramjet-powered supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, fighter aircraft or TEL.DRDO Chief confirmed that the BrahMos-NG supersonic cruise missile programme is progressing on schedule and will soon equip the HAL Tejas and Su- 30MKI fighter jets. The smaller and lighter missile will allow combat aircraft to carry multiple missiles while improving stealth and operational flexibility.