In a move that could redefine armored warfare, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is developing a revolutionary new ammunition system for main battle tanks. Led by Major General Rajiv Narayanan, a Professor of Practice at the institute, and in collaboration with Lieutenant General Shankar, the project focuses on creating ramjet-powered Fin Stabilized Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot (FSAPDS) shells. This ambitious endeavor seeks to significantly boost the range and effectiveness of tank weaponry against modern armored threats.
Traditional FSAPDS rounds, while currently the most potent kinetic energy ammunition for tanks, have limitations in range and velocity. Their effectiveness is further challenged by the advent of advanced Active Protection Systems (APS) on modern tanks, designed to intercept incoming projectiles.
The innovative ramjet-powered FSAPDS rounds aim to overcome these limitations by leveraging ramjet technology to achieve significantly higher speeds and extend the effective range to an unprecedented 6 to 9 kilometers.
This extended range offers several tactical advantages. Firstly, it allows tank crews to engage enemy armor from a safer distance, reducing their vulnerability to counter-fire. Secondly, the increased speed of the projectile decreases the reaction time for enemy APS, making interception significantly more difficult.
Ramjets are air-breathing engines that generate thrust by utilizing the oxygen in the surrounding air, allowing for sustained propulsion over extended distances. This technology, successfully implemented in this project, promises to propel FSAPDS rounds to significantly higher speeds, extending their lethal range to 6-9 kilometers.
The IIT Madras team is currently focused on rigorous testing and validation of the new ammunition system. The project involves intricate engineering challenges, including the integration of advanced materials and precision manufacturing techniques to ensure the rounds can withstand the extreme forces involved.
