CSIR-NAL unveils indigenous micro and small gas turbine engines to boost India's unmanned defense capabilities
Distilled Policy Brief
- The achievement represents a significant milestone toward self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in defense aerospace and advanced aero-propulsion technologies.
🎯 Prelims High-Yield Examination Points
CSIR-NAL has developed indigenous NJ-05, NJ-50, and NJ-100 micro and small gas turbine engines designed specifically for UAVs, drone interceptors, and compact missile systems.
⚖️ Mains Analytical & Syllabus Linkages
Analyze the significance of indigenizing critical sub-systems such as micro gas turbine engines in boosting India's aerospace manufacturing ecosystem and national security.
🎯 UPSC Prelims Practice Drill
With reference to the indigenous micro and small gas turbine engines (NJ-series) recently unveiled in India, consider the following statements: 1. They were designed and developed by the CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL). 2. The engines are intended for applications in tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), drone interceptors, and compact missile systems. 3. Their development relies on advancements in high-RPM turbomachinery and high-temperature combustion technology. Which of the statements given above are correct?
- [A] 1 and 2 only
- [B] 2 and 3 only
- [C] 1 and 3 only
- [D] 1, 2 and 3
▶ Reveal Official Answer & Analytical Explanation
All three statements are correct. The CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) unveiled three indigenous micro and small gas turbine engines (NJ-05, NJ-50, and NJ-100). These propulsion systems were developed for tactical UAVs, drone interceptors, and compact missile systems, utilizing key technological advancements in high-RPM turbomachinery and high-temperature combustion.
🏛️ Historical Twin PYQ Anchor (2021)
Consider the following statements regarding the "National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)": 1. It is implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. 2. Central Pollution Control Board acts as the sole regulatory executive body.