Explained: Why India’s first indigenous expendable turbojet engine is a historic breakthrough

India has achieved something that only a handful of countries in the world can claim, by developing its first indigenous expendable turbojet engine in the 350 kg thrust class. The engine could support future cruise missiles, loitering munitions and high-speed unmanned systems, reducing dependence on overseas suppliers.

For the first time, India has successfully developed an indigenous expendable turbojet engine in the 350 kg thrust class. Designed by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) and manufactured by Hyderabad-based Azad Engineering, the engine was delivered to GTRE on July 22, 2026.

It is a major technological milestone that could strengthen India’s future missile and drone programmes.

DRDO’s new 350 kg thrust engine marks a big leap for Indian defence 

So, what exactly is an expendable turbojet engine?

Think of a jet engine as a machine that breathes air. It pulls air in from the front, compresses it, mixes it with fuel, burns the mixture, and throws the hot gases out from the back. That powerful exhaust creates thrust, pushing the vehicle forward at high speed. The engine powers a missile or an unmanned weapon system until it reaches its target. It is designed for just one mission. Once the mission is complete, the engine is destroyed along with........

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