The Indian Army is poised to become the world’s first military force to deploy ramjet-powered 155mm artillery shells, a move that significantly enhances firing range while maintaining lethality, officials said.
Developed under India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) initiative, the ramjet-assisted shells are expected to extend the range of existing 155mm artillery by 30–50%. The project is being developed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras in collaboration with the Indian Army through the Army Technology Board.
Ramjet technology—already used in missile systems—employs an air-breathing engine that operates at high speeds without the need for compressors or turbines. According to IIT Madras, once launched to around Mach 2 using a gun or rocket, the ramjet ignites and generates sustained thrust, significantly increasing range.
Officials said the ramjet unit can be retrofitted onto existing 155mm artillery shells, allowing the Army to integrate the technology across its current artillery systems, including the M777 ultra-light howitzer.
The shells are currently undergoing developmental trials and have already recorded successful test firings at the Pokhran field firing ranges in Rajasthan.
India’s artillery modernisation programme has prioritised longer-range, high-precision munitions as part of efforts to strengthen battlefield capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign defence technology. (Source: Theweek)
