New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted a high-speed rocket-sled test of a fighter aircraft escape system at a controlled velocity of 800 km/h, validating key components including canopy severance, ejection sequencing, and complete aircrew recovery. The test took place at the Rail Track Rocket Sled facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory in Chandigarh. This complex dynamic test involved a dual-sled system with the LCA aircraft forebody propelled via phased firing of multiple solid propellant rocket motors, simulating real-life escape conditions for combat pilots.
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An instrumented Anthropomorphic Test Dummy was used to record critical loads, moments, and accelerations experienced by pilots during ejection, while the entire sequence was captured with onboard and ground-based imaging systems. The rigorous test demonstrated India’s sophisticated in-house capability to perform advanced escape system evaluations—an elite capability among nations. The test was conducted in collaboration with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and was witnessed by officials from the Indian Air Force and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine and certification authorities.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, IAF, ADA, HAL, and industry partners for the successful test and termed it a significant milestone toward India’s self-reliance in indigenous defence technology. He highlighted this achievement as a major step forward in ensuring pilot safety and advancing indigenous defence capabilities. Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also congratulated the team involved in the successful demonstration, emphasizing the importance of the test in India's strategic aerospace development and safety standards for fighter pilots.
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This dynamic rocket-sled test plays a crucial role beyond traditional static tests by realistically evaluating ejection seat performance and efficacy of the canopy severance system under flight-like conditions. The data gathered will support further refinement and qualification of indigenous escape systems tailored for India’s current and future fighter aircraft, marking a remarkable technological advancement in safeguarding aircrew during emergency ejections. This development strengthens India’s capabilities to operate cutting-edge aerospace safety technologies internally, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
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