Archive · 8 Dec 2025
India Achieves Breakthrough in Aerospace with Morphing Wing Technology
Scientists in India have created a special wing for airplanes that can change its shape while flying.
This is called morphing wing technology.
The wings use special metals that shrink and expand when heated or cooled, allowing the wing to bend smoothly without any gaps.
This makes the airplane better at flying in different situations, like taking off, climbing, or fighting in the air.
The wings can change shape very quickly, even in strong winds, and they help the airplane hide from radar.
India is now one of the few countries that can do this, and it could make future Indian fighter jets much more advanced and powerful.
DRDO and CSIR–NAL successfully demonstrated morphing wing technology, allowing wings to change shape during flight.
The technology uses Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) that shrink and expand with temperature changes, enabling smooth wing adjustments.
The tested wing segment achieved a six-degree droop in the leading edge, improving lift and maneuverability.
The system can change shape in 0.17 seconds under flight-like conditions, making it suitable for combat situations.
The technology offers advantages in stealth, fuel efficiency, and adaptability for various flight phases and future aircraft projects.
- Who
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and CSIR–National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL)
- What
- Successful demonstration of morphing wing technology
- When
- Not specified
- Where
- India
- Why
- To enhance fighter jet performance, stealth, and fuel efficiency
- Organization
- DRDO and CSIR–NAL
- Technology
- Morphing Wing Technology
- Key Innovation
- Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs)
- Tested Wing Span
- 300 mm
- Shape Change Time
- 0.17 seconds
- Energy Usage
- 5.6% extra energy
- Potential Applications
- AMCA, TEDBF, advanced drones
- Radar Advantage
- Smooth surface for stealth