Indian Army Progresses with Acquisition of 120-km Pinaka Rockets in ₹2,500-Crore Initiative for Enhanced Artillery Capability
The Indian Army is advancing plans to introduce Pinaka rockets with a 120-kilometer strike range, a project estimated to cost around ₹2,500 crore. This move is aimed at enhancing long-range artillery capabilities following Operation Sindoor, according to defense officials who spoke to ANI.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to develop these new-generation Pinaka rockets, with initial trials anticipated soon. Upon successful testing, the rockets will be co-developed and manufactured with Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs), who will be chosen through a competitive bidding process.
Sources indicate that the Army's proposal will soon be presented for approval to the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).
Indigenous Pinaka System Gets a Major Upgrade
Under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the Defence Ministry has prioritized the enhancement of indigenous multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) capabilities. The Pinaka system has gained recognition as a notable defense export from India in recent years.
The forthcoming rockets, capable of reaching 120 kilometers, will be compatible with existing Pinaka launchers, which currently accommodate rockets with ranges of 40 km and over 75 km. Concurrently, the Army is working on fortifying its current Pinaka regiments and has recently placed orders for area denial ammunition for these units.
Recent Contracts Strengthen Artillery Arsenal
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Defence secured several contracts to bolster the Pinaka infrastructure:
| Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM) |
| High Explosive Pre-Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 Enhanced Rockets |
These contracts, valued at a total of ₹10,147 crore, were signed with Economic Explosives Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL).
Additionally, an agreement for the SHAKTI software upgrade was signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), with all contracts being executed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
Pinaka: A Proven Indian Success Story
The Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), developed by DRDO, is a crucial element of India's long-range artillery, recognized for its:
| Rapid response |
| Precision engagement |
| High-volume fire capability |
DRDO is nearing completion of the new 120-kilometer variant, with testing slated for the upcoming financial year.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff, has expressed strong support for the system, suggesting that the Army may abandon plans for alternative long-range weaponry once the extended-range versions are operational.
Growing Export Demand
The Pinaka system has also proven to be a strong export contender. Armenia has already integrated the system, and interest has been expressed by several European countries, including France.
The introduction of the 120-kilometer variant is anticipated to significantly boost India's deep-strike artillery capability, representing a substantial advancement in indigenous firepower development.
