DRDO conducts qualification level load test of Gaganyaan drogue parachute at TBRL Chandigarh
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful qualification level load test of the drogue parachute for the Gaganyaan programme at the Rail Track Rocket Sled facility of TBRL, Chandigarh, on 18 February 2026.
Summary
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful qualification level load test of the drogue parachute for the Gaganyaan programme at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh, on 18 February 2026. The test was carried out with the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (ISRO) and DRDO's Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment. The dynamic test simulated qualification level loads higher than the maximum flight loads, showing the parachute's additional design safety margin, and demonstrated India's expertise in high-strength ribbon parachutes. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh complimented DRDO, ISRO and industry.
Key facts
- Date and place
- 18 February 2026, RTRS facility, TBRL Chandigarh
- Test
- Qualification level load test of Gaganyaan drogue parachute
- Partners
- VSSC (ISRO), ADRDE (DRDO), TBRL
- Significance
- Loads higher than maximum flight loads — extra design safety margin
- Parachute type
- High-strength ribbon parachute
Practice MCQs 2 questions
At which facility did DRDO conduct the qualification level load test of the Gaganyaan drogue parachute on 18 February 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Rail Track Rocket Sled facility, TBRL Chandigarh
The test was conducted at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of DRDO's Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh.
Consider the following statements about the Gaganyaan drogue parachute test of 18 February 2026: 1. It simulated loads higher than the maximum flight loads. 2. It was carried out with the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment. Which of the above is/are correct?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Both are correct. The test simulated qualification level loads higher than maximum flight loads and involved VSSC (ISRO) and ADRDE (DRDO) alongside TBRL.