New Delhi: India achieved a significant milestone in advancing self-reliance in defense technology with the successful test of its Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) on November 13. This achievement was particularly noteworthy as it highlighted the indigenous Manik engine, marking a major breakthrough in missile propulsion technology.

The Manik engine, a small turbofan engine (STFE), was developed by Bengaluru-based Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a division of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Designed specifically for cruise missiles, the Manik engine delivers 4.5 kN of thrust and serves as a critical component in powering the Nirbhay series of missiles. It is also being adapted for future applications, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and advanced long-range missile systems.

Following a successful flight test in October 2022, the Manik engine demonstrated its readiness for integration into sophisticated weapons systems. Its development underscores India’s growing expertise in missile propulsion, significantly enhancing the nation’s defense capabilities.

STFEs like the Manik engine are compact jet engines that propel missiles and small aircraft by drawing in air, compressing it, mixing it with fuel, and igniting the mixture to create thrust. Currently, BrahMos Aerospace produces around 12 Manik engines annually to support the testing of the Nirbhay cruise missile, showcasing India’s growing ability to produce critical components for long-range precision weaponry.

By successfully integrating the Manik engine into the LRLACM, India reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers for missile propulsion, reinforcing its position as a leader in defense innovation. This aligns with the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, emphasizing self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing.

The indigenous development of the Manik engine is a cost-effective alternative to importing propulsion systems, allowing the redirection of resources toward other domestic defense initiatives while maintaining the affordability of programs like the LRLACM.

The Manik engine’s versatility opens possibilities for its adaptation in a variety of systems, such as short-range ballistic missiles and air-launched cruise missiles. Its potential to support diverse applications could make it a cornerstone of India’s future missile development efforts.

Despite its success, scaling up production to meet the anticipated demand for LRLACMs and other platforms remains a challenge. The current production capacity of 12 engines per year could become a bottleneck, necessitating greater investment and enhanced manufacturing capabilities.

In the long term, the Manik engine's adaptability and performance could play a vital role in bolstering India’s defense readiness and advancing its position as a global leader in military technology.