IIT-M researchers develop ramjet-propelled artillery shells to increase range of fire

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, have developed and tested ramjet-propelled artillery shells that are capable of enhancing the range of gun fire by about 50% without sacrificing its lethality.

A ramjet is a type of engine that uses the vehicle’s high speed to compress incoming air, mix it with fuel, and generate thrust without moving parts like rotating turbines.

This innovation integrates a ramjet engine into an existing 155 mm artillery shell, replacing the conventional base-bleed unit. This approach, a press release stated, enables sustained propulsion after the shell exits the barrel, extending its reach significantly while preserving its destructiveness.

Giving examples, the release stated that the 39-calibre Bofors Ultra Light Howitzer’s range has increased from 24 km to 43 km and the 45-calibre Dhanush gun system’s ranged has increased from 30 km to 55 km.

The Vajra and ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System) systems, both 52 calibre, have had an increase of range from 36 km and 40 km, respectively to 62 km and 70 km, respectively.

The project was led by P.A. Ramakrishna, faculty of Aerospace Engineering; Lt. Gen. P.R. Shankar (retired); H.S.N. Murthy, Head, Department of Aerospace Engineering, M. Ramakrishna, faculty of Aerospace Engineering; A. Murugaiyan, faculty of Metallurgical and Material Engineering; and Lt. Gen. Hari Mohan Iyer (retired).