DRDO's Scramjet Engine Test: India Achieves Hypersonic Missile Breakthrough at 6,100 KM/H

• DRDO's DRDL in Hyderabad successfully ground-tested an 'Actively Cooled Long Duration Scramjet Engine' on January 09, 2026.
• The engine achieved a run time of over 12 minutes, a significant technical achievement in hypersonic technology.
• This success paves the way for India to develop hypersonic cruise missiles capable of speeds up to 6,100 km/h (Mach 5+).
• Scramjet engines are 'air-breathing', drawing oxygen from the atmosphere, making missiles lighter and increasing range.
• This indigenous technology places India among an elite group of nations with advanced aerospace capabilities, providing a strategic advantage for 'second strike' and 'surgical strike' capabilities.

Why It Matters: DRDO's successful Scramjet engine test propels India into an elite group with advanced hypersonic missile capabilities.