India's Hypersonic Missile Breakthrough: DRDL Scramjet Test a Game-Changer

• DRDL, Hyderabad (part of DRDO), successfully conducted a long-duration ground test of a full-scale, 'actively cooled' scramjet combustor.
• The test, held on January 9, 2026, at the SCPT Facility, demonstrated stable scramjet engine performance for over 12 consecutive minutes.
• This achievement is a crucial step in developing hypersonic propulsion systems, which are vital for missiles traveling above Mach 5.
• Defense Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, highlighting the test's importance for India's hypersonic cruise missile program.
• The successful test signifies India's self-reliance in advanced defense technology and will be decisive for future hypersonic weapon systems.

Why It Matters: India achieves a major milestone in hypersonic missile technology with a successful 12-minute scramjet engine test.