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 the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh. The test validated canopy severance, ejection sequencing, and complete aircrew recovery. Conducted in collaboration with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the complex dynamic test “India in an elite club of nations with advanced in-house escape system testing capability,” stated a government press release. Further explaining the significance of the trial it added, unlike static tests, dynamic ejection trials simulate real-life conditions to evaluate ejection seat performance and canopy severance efficacy. A dual-sled system with the LCA aircraft forebody was propelled to a precisely controlled velocity using phased firing of multiple solid-propellant rocket motors. An instrumented Anthropomorphic Test Dummy recorded critical loads, moments, and accelerations, while onboard and ground-based imaging systems captured the entire sequence. The test was witnessed by officials from the Indian Air Force and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine for certification. Defence minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, IAF, ADA, HAL, and industry partners, calling the test a significant milestone in India’s indigenous defence capability and a step forward towards self-reliance.Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also congratulated the team for the successful demonstration.
