Deeptech Startup D-Propulse Builds Indigenous Detonation Engines for Missiles

31 Oct 2026, 2:07 pm · 3h ago · 1 min read · Inc42New

Indian defence-tech startup D-Propulse is developing rotating detonation engines (RDEs) to power high-speed drones and missiles, aiming to reduce India's reliance on imported propulsion systems. Founded in 2025 by defence analyst Saurav Jha and former DRDO scientist Dr V Ramanujachari, the deeptech venture translates advanced combustion research from IIT Madras into commercial engines. Unlike standard jet engines that rely on steady combustion, RDEs utilise continuous supersonic detonation waves to generate higher thrust with enhanced fuel efficiency and smaller footprints. The startup plans to commercialise its next-generation propulsion systems for domestic military and global aerospace markets.