Chennai, June 27 (UNI) The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully demonstrated hot test of the Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article (PHTA) at higher thrust level.

The hot test, eighth in the series using PHTA, was conducted at a thrust level of 175 tonne at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) at Mahendragiri in Tamil Nadu on 24 June, 2026, ISRO said on Saturday.

The PHTA encompasses all engine systems except the thrust chamber. The objectives of this test included the study of build up after

Pre-burner ignition and demonstration of steady state operation at higher thrust levels.

The previous PHTA tests were carried out at 47% (94 Tonne) and 60% (120 Tonne) thrust levels. In this test, the PHTA was tested at

175 tonne thrust level (88%) for the first time and also demonstrated successful operation of main turbopumps delivering 400 and

500 bar outlet pressures.

The test proceeded as predicted and all the engine parameters were as expected. This test has provided sufficient confidence towards the demonstration of steady state performance of engine powerhead at 200 tonne (100%) thrust level and also achieved a major milestone in the indigenous development of Semicryogenic engine.

The Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (SC120), powered by the 2000 kN-class SE2000 engine, is being developed to replace the current L110 core stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle. This strategic upgrade is expected to substantially increase the payload capacity while enhancing operational efficiency. The semi-cryogenic system uses cleaner, non-toxic propellants-Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and purified Kerosene (isrosene) - offering improved performance over conventional propulsion stages.

The integration of the Semicryogenic propulsion system, in tandem with an uprated cryogenic upper stage, signifies a major advancement in ISRO’s roadmap towards enhancing LVM3 payload capability.

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