DRDO Successfully Tests Fighter Aircraft Escape System

DRDO completed a high-speed rocket-sled test of a fighter aircraft escape system in Chandigarh, validating canopy severance, ejection sequencing and aircrew recovery using a dual-sled setup with an LCA forebody | Photo: Indian Ministry of Defence

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted a high-speed rocket-sled test of a fighter aircraft escape system, validating key components of pilot ejection and recovery. The test took place at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory in Chandigarh.

DRDO completed a high-speed rocket-sled test of a fighter aircraft escape system in Chandigarh, validating canopy severance, ejection sequencing and aircrew recovery using a dual-sled setup with an LCA forebody | Photo: Indian Ministry of Defence

According to DRDO, the trial confirmed canopy severance, ejection sequencing and complete aircrew-recovery at a controlled velocity. The test was carried out in collaboration with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Officials described dynamic ejection tests as more complex than static evaluations such as net tests or zero-zero tests, providing a more accurate measure of ejection seat and canopy severance performance.

A dual-sled system carrying the forebody of the Light Combat Aircraft was propelled to a precisely controlled speed using phased firing of multiple solid-propellant rocket motors. An instrumented anthropomorphic test dummy was used to simulate pilot conditions and record loads, accelerations and forces during the ejection sequence. Onboard and ground imaging systems documented the entire process, which was witnessed by representatives of the Indian Air Force and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine.