The CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) has unveiled three indigenous micro and small gas turbine engines designed for applications in unmanned aerial vehicles, drone interceptors and compact missile systems.
The three engines, named NJ-05, NJ-50 and NJ-100, have thrust capacities of 5 kg, 50 kg and 100 kg respectively. The propulsion systems are aimed at meeting critical requirements for indigenous defence technologies and strengthening India’s capabilities in aerospace engineering.
The engines were unveiled at the CSIR headquarters in New Delhi in the presence of senior officials from the defence and scientific communities. Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee, attended the event as the chief guest.
CSIR-NAL Director Abhay A Pashilkar said the laboratory was evolving into a multi-stage integrator for India’s expanding drone ecosystem. He highlighted the potential of Indian industry and the growing aerospace start-up sector to manufacture the engines at scale for the domestic defence market.
The CSIR-NAL scientific team, led by R Prathapanayaka, presented technical details of the engine development, highlighting advances in high-RPM turbomachinery and high-temperature combustion technologies.
CSIR Director General and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research Secretary N Kalaiselvi commended the development team, describing indigenous specialised aerospace subsystems as an important step towards greater self-reliance in aerospace engineering.
Air Marshal Tejinder Singh also underlined the strategic importance of developing advanced gas turbine technologies within India. He said strengthening domestic capabilities in critical propulsion technologies would contribute to national security and enhance India’s technological self-reliance.
