DRDO Successfully Tests High-Speed Indigenous Fighter Jet Escape System

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a major breakthrough by carrying out a high-speed rocket-sled test of a fighter aircraft escape system in Chandigarh. This important trial proved that the pilot-saving technology works safely and effectively during emergencies.

Key Test Conducted in Chandigarh

The test took place at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL). This advanced track allows scientists to check how escape systems perform at very high speeds, similar to real flying conditions.

Validation of Critical Safety Features

During the trial, experts successfully confirmed three major safety steps:

• The aircraft canopy was cut open smoothly.
• The ejection sequence worked correctly.
• The test dummy, used in place of a pilot, was safely recovered.

This shows that the escape system can protect pilots during life-threatening situations.

A Collaboration of Major Defence Agencies

The test was jointly carried out by:

• Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
• DRDO

A government statement said the achievement places India among a small group of countries that have the ability to test such advanced systems on their own. 

Why Dynamic Tests are Important?

Static tests cannot fully recreate real emergencies. In contrast, dynamic ejection trials copy the exact conditions a pilot might face in flight.

For this test:

• A dual-sled setup was used.
• The front section of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) was mounted.
• Several solid rocket motors pushed the sled to a precisely controlled high speed.

An instrumented Anthropomorphic Test Dummy measured impacts and forces. High-speed cameras on the sled and on the ground captured every moment of the ejection.

Certification Observers Present

Officials from the Indian Air Force and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine were present during the trial. Their observations will help in the certification process for operational fighter aircraft.

Leaders Praise the Achievement

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, HAL, ADA, IAF, and industry partners. He said the test marks a major step in India’s journey towards defence self-reliance.

DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat also appreciated the team for proving the system’s capability through a difficult and high-precision demonstration.