Missile materials—Current status and challenges

Abstract

Missile Development Programme has provided focal thrust to indigenous materials and components. Materials have been selected on the basis of their high strength to weight ratio, good corrosion resistance, high fracture toughness, easy fabricability and reliable quality. Alloys of magnesium, aluminium, titanium and maraging steel are extensively used for airframe and propulsion systems. Polymer materials and carbon-carbon composites are major nonmetallic materials. Development of high purity electronic materials like silicon, indium, phosphorus, Cu clad materials, photo resists and epoxies are very important for the programme. The paper covers the requirements and challenge areas of research, and calls for consortium approach involving academic institutions. R and D laboratories and industries to ensure self reliance.