ISRO Hot-Tests Semi-Cryogenic Engine at 175 Tons, Reaching 88% of Target Thrust
Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 27
ISRO Hot-Tests Semi-Cryogenic Engine at 175 Tons, Reaching 88% of Target Thrust
1 articles · Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 27
Summary
June 24 testing at ISRO’s Propulsion Complex in Tamil Nadu showed the semi-cryogenic engine power head operating stably at 175 tons of thrust.
ISRO said that level equals 88% of the engine’s target thrust, making the hot test a key development milestone rather than a full-thrust qualification.
The power-head trial advances India’s work on a new propulsion system intended for future launch vehicles, with the result validating core engine operation under hot-test conditions.
Beyond lifting heavier satellites, what new deep-space frontiers does this powerful new engine unlock for India?
Why is India negotiating to buy Russian engines while celebrating its own successful indigenous test?
ISRO Achieves 175-Tonne Thrust in Semi-Cryogenic Engine Tests: Paving the Way for LVM3 Heavy-Lift Upgrades
Overview
On June 24, 2026, ISRO successfully hot tested its Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article (PHTA) at the IPRC in Mahendragiri, achieving 88% of its targeted thrust at 175 tonnes. This 8th test focused on validating critical engine systems, including pre-burner ignition build-up, steady-state operation at high thrust, and the performance of main turbopumps. Reaching this milestone gives ISRO strong confidence to move forward with further development, showing that the engine’s design and operation are working as intended and paving the way for future heavy-lift launch vehicles.