The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recorded a significant advancement in India’s aerospace defence capabilities by successfully completing a high-speed rocket-sled test of a fighter aircraft emergency escape system. The controlled-velocity test was conducted at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh.
The trial demonstrated successful performance of critical escape system elements, including canopy severance, synchronized ejection sequencing, and complete aircrew recovery — establishing a major benchmark in pilot safety systems.
Strategic Collaboration with ADA and HAL
The dynamic evaluation was executed in coordination with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). With this accomplishment, India joins a small group of nations possessing advanced, indigenous testing capabilities for escape systems — infrastructure considered essential for modern combat aircraft development and self-reliant defence manufacturing.
Highly Complex Dynamic Test Parameters
Unlike routine static tests such as the Net Test or Zero-Zero Test, dynamic ejection trials simulate real flight conditions and are considered the true evaluative standard for ejection seat reliability.
In this phase, a dual-sled configuration mounted with the forebody of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) was propelled to a controlled high velocity using multiple solid-propellant rocket motors fired in sequential stages.
To replicate real pilot responses, an Anthropomorphic Test Dummy (ATD) equipped with multiple instrumentation systems was used to record acceleration forces, air loads, and other biomechanical effects during ejection.
The entire operation was closely monitored through onboard telemetry and high-speed imaging systems. Representatives from the Indian Air Force and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine were present for technical oversight and certification review.
National Leadership Commends Achievement
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, ADA, HAL and all partner organisations, calling the successful test a major leap toward strengthening India’s indigenous defence ecosystem. DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat also lauded the engineering teams for demonstrating exceptional innovation and execution capability.
Summary
- DRDO has successfully carried out a high-speed dynamic test of a fighter aircraft escape system at the TBRL RTRS facility in Chandigarh.
- The trial validated canopy severance, ejection sequencing, and aircrew recovery mechanisms.
- The test was conducted with support from ADA and HAL, placing India among a select few nations with advanced escape-system testing infrastructure.
- A specially instrumented test dummy simulated real-life pilot conditions during ejection.
- National leadership praised the milestone as a major step toward defence self-reliance.
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