Abstract: Electromagnetic railgun is a new method to obtain the high velocity from electromagnetic energy, and it has advantages of high velocity, speed adjustment, and stable performances. Augmented railgun technology is an important branch of electromagnetic launch technology. Because of the distinct advantages of the high inductance gradient, it has become one of the research hotspots of electromagnetic launch in recent years. Substantial progress has been made both in theoretical researches and engineering applications. In this paper, the principle of augmented technology, the major achievements of modelling, calculation, simulation and tests are presented, and the research status improvements in recent years are summarized. The features of the high inductance gradient and relatively low driving current amplitudes contribute to improvements of the barrel lifetime and the payload ratio. However, problems such as restrictions on electronic components, the complexity of the system, and the rising risk of insulation have emerged as the gradual deepening of the study. Based on advantages and disadvantages of the augmented railgun, key technologies in terms of precise modelling, insulation, long lifetime, high tension winding, and projectile matching are proposed. The future trend of the augmented railgun is further discussed, which helps to advance its engineering applications.