India's Indigenous Manik Engine: A Game-Changer for Cruise Missiles

• India achieves a major milestone in indigenous missile technology with the Manik Small Turbofan Engine (STFE).
• BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Limited (BATL) delivered the first batch of Manik engines to GTRE.
• The Manik engine replaces Russia's NPO Saturn 36MT, ending foreign dependence for cruise missile propulsion.
• This engine, weighing 100 kg and producing 4.25-4.50 kN thrust, is crucial for long-range subsonic cruise missiles.
• Features include an indigenous FADEC system and pyrotechnic mid-air start capability, enhancing strategic autonomy.