PLA engine maker marks 60 years

Beijing Institute of Propulsion Machinery, which designs and produces engines for China's anti-ship and cruise missiles, marked its 60th anniversary on Sunday.

The institute, part of China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp's Third Academy, released two books on its six decades as well as a documentary about its history, achievements as well as future plans.

Established on Dec 3, 1957, in Beijing's southwestern suburb, the research body was the first in the nation to develop ramjet engine, solid-propellant rocket engine and missile-based turbofan engine, according to a news release from the institute.

China's CJ-10 series ground-launched cruise missile, one of the most powerful weapons deployed by the People's Liberation Army, is propelled by engines designed and made by the institute.

The statement said the institute has become a world-class developer of ramjet engines and has started research into the cutting-edge technology of high-speed air-breathing propulsion.

In addition to missiles, its products have also been used by unmanned aircraft and aerospace vehicles, according to the institute.