SciTech Express

In a groundbreaking achievement, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the maiden flight-trials of its Stratospheric Airship Platform on May 3, 2025. Developed by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra, this high-altitude platform marks a historic milestone in India’s march toward advanced aerospace systems and cutting-edge defence technology . What Is a Stratospheric Airship Platform? A stratospheric airship is a lighter-than-air, unmanned aerial vehicle designed to fly at stratospheric altitudes—typically between 17 to 20 kilometers—well above commercial air traffic and weather disturbances. These airships serve as High-Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) and are envisioned as persistent platforms for earth observation, telecommunication, disaster management , and most importantly, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. Unlike traditional satellites, HAPS like the DRDO’s airship offer...

DRDO Unveils Plans for Humanoid Robot Army to Complement Human Troops Overview The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on developing a humanoid robot army to support human soldiers in combat and high-risk military operations. These robots are designed to enhance battlefield efficiency, reduce casualties, and perform tasks that are too dangerous for human troops. Key Features of the Humanoid Robot Army Advanced AI Integration – The robots will be equipped with artificial intelligence for autonomous decision-making and strategic combat planning. Exoskeleton & High Mobility – Designed with a powerful exoskeleton to navigate difficult terrains and engage in military operations effectively. Surveillance & Reconnaissance – Equipped with sensors, cameras, and night vision for gathering intelligence in real-time. Combat Capabilities – These robots will be armed with weapons to assist soldiers in direct combat. Disaster Response & Rescue Operations –...

DRDO’s Scramjet Engine Breakthrough: A Step Towards Hypersonic Missile Systems The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a 120-second ground test of an active-cooled scramjet combustor at its Hyderabad-based Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) . This is a major achievement in India's quest for hypersonic propulsion technology , essential for developing next-generation missile systems. What is a Scramjet Engine? A Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) engine is a type of air-breathing jet engine designed to operate efficiently at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5 and above) . Unlike conventional jet engines, scramjets do not have rotating compressors and instead rely on supersonic airflow for compression and combustion . Key Highlights of the DRDO Test 1. Successful 120-Second Ground Test Conducted by DRDL, Hyderabad . Validated the performance of an active-cooled scramjet combustor . Key milestone in the development of India’s hy...