DRDO Launches Green Propulsion System in Orbit

The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) successfully injected the Green Propulsion System into orbit on a payload launched from the PSLV C-58 rocket.

• According to the information given by the Defense Ministry on 1 February 2024, ‘Green Propulsion System’ has been developed under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme of DRDO. The green propulsion system has been developed by Bengaluru-based start-up Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt. Ltd.

Green propulsion system is environment friendly:

• Under innovative technology like Green Propulsion System, an environment-friendly propulsion system has been designed for the orbit.
• Whereas conventional rocket fuel (propulsion system) is a highly toxic and carcinogenic chemical.
• According to the Defense Ministry, this project of 1N Class Green Monopropellant Thruster has been approved for altitude control and maintaining micro satellites in orbit.
• It has been developed by Bengaluru-based startup Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd (development agency).
• Telemetry data from the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) has been validated with ground level resolution at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network, Bengaluru. It has been found to exceed all performance parameters.

Green propulsion system developed with indigenous technology:

• The indigenously developed Green Propulsion System for Orbit has successfully demonstrated its functionality. The Defense Ministry has described it as a big leap in the field of space defense technology.

What will be the benefit:

• According to the Defense Ministry, this innovative technology has resulted in a non-toxic and environment-friendly propulsion system for low orbit space.
• According to the Defense Ministry, the system comprises indigenously developed propellant, fill and drain valves, latch valves, solenoid valves, catalyst bed, drive electronics etc. Suitable for space missions demanding high thrust.
• It said that the entire project has been carried out by the development agency under the guidance of DRDO's Project Monitoring and Mentoring Group.

About Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme:

• TDF scheme is a major program under the Ministry of Defence. It has been implemented by DRDO under the 'Make in India' initiative.

Following are the main objectives of TDF Scheme:

• To engage with private industries, especially MSMEs and startups, to promote a culture of design and development in military technology. They can be provided support along with grants in aid.
• To focus on research, design and development for specific technologies being developed for the first time in the country.
• To build a bridge between armed forces, research organisations, academia with private entities.
• Backing emerging technologies with proven concepts and transitioning them into prototypes.

Following are the benefits of TDF scheme:

• Building capacity and efficiency in Indian industries to design and develop the country's defense technologies.
• To create an ecosystem for research and development.
• Building defense manufacturing ecosystem in the country.
• Achieving 'self-reliance' in defense technology.
• Currently, 70 projects have received approval for diverse industries. Its total cost is Rs 291.25 crore. 16 defense technologies have been successfully developed/realized under this scheme.

Allocation for TDF scheme in Budget 2024-25:

• The allocation for the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme is Rs 60 crore, which is specifically designed for new start-ups, MSMEs and academics.
• Which attracts young bright minds interested in innovation and develop specific technology in the field of defense in collaboration with DRDO.