India achieved its first indigenous expendable turbojet engine in the 350 kg thrust class

India achieved its first indigenous expendable turbojet engine in the 350 kg thrust class

¨     India achieved its first indigenous expendable turbojet engine in the 350 kg thrust class on 22 July 2026.

¨     The engine was designed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

¨     The engine was manufactured and assembled by Azad Engineering, Hyderabad.

¨     A turbojet engine is a gas turbine engine that generates thrust by compressing air, burning fuel, and expelling high-speed exhaust gases through a nozzle.

¨     An expendable turbojet engine is designed for single-use or limited-use applications.

¨     Such engines are primarily used in missiles and unmanned systems.

¨     Azad Engineering completed the development and delivered the engine to GTRE in approximately 24 months.

¨     The engine was officially handed over on 22 July 2026.

¨     The handover ceremony was attended by Rakesh Chopdar, Founder and CEO of Azad Engineering, Dr. K. Rajalakshmi Menon, Distinguished Scientist and Director General (Aeronautical Systems), DRDO, and Dr. S. V. Ramanamurty, Outstanding Scientist and Director of GTRE.

¨     Exam Facts: First indigenous expendable turbojet engine; 350 kg thrust class; Designer – GTRE (DRDO); Manufacturer – Azad Engineering, Hyderabad; Primary Applications – Missiles and Unmanned Systems.