India approves acquisition of 6,400 rockets for Pinaka rocket launchers.

The Indian Defense Ministry has greenlit a proposal for the acquisition of approximately 6,400 rockets intended for the Pinaka multiple rocket launcher systems (MLRS). Valued at 2,800 crore Indian Rupees, which equates to roughly 356 million US dollars, this significant purchase forms a crucial part of the ongoing artillery modernization efforts within the Indian Army.
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Indian Defense Ministry has greenlit a proposal for the acquisition of approximately 6,400 rockets intended for the Pinaka multiple rocket launcher systems (MLRS). (Picture source: Wikimedia)

Developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Pinaka MLRS, named after the legendary bow of the Hindu god Shiva, exemplifies the rising prowess of the Indian defense industry. This system is among the first Indian military equipment to be exported abroad, including to countries like Armenia.

The Pinaka is an MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System) produced in India and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Army. The Pinaka is based on a 6x6 military truck BEML-Tatra T813/T815 with a launcher unit mounted at the rear of the truck chassis consisting of two blocks of six tube launchers. The system is capable of firing free flight as well as guided Pinaka rockets. The free flight rockets can engage targets up to 37.5 km (Pinaka Mk-I) and 60 km (Pinaka Mk-II) range whereas guided Pinaka rockets can engage targets located deep into enemy territory up to a range of 75 km with high precision.

The rockets to be procured fall into two types: Area Denial Munition Type 2 and Type 3. In line with India's self-reliance policy, these rockets will be exclusively sourced from domestic companies, namely Economic Explosives Limited, a subsidiary of Solar Industries, and Munitions India Limited, formed from the corporatization of former ordnance factories.

Private sector companies such as Larsen & Toubro, Tata Defence, and Economic Explosives Limited play a crucial role in this project. They have established production lines for the Pinaka system to meet the increasing demands of the armed forces.

The Pinaka system stands out for its advanced technical features. The current versions have a range of 37 to 75 km, offering substantial coverage in terms of distance. Thanks to satellite navigation and advanced guidance systems, the Pinaka rockets ensure enhanced precision, vital for targeted missions. Each rocket is capable of carrying a significant payload, thus increasing combat effectiveness.

The Indian Army plans to acquire 22 regiments of these Pinaka MBRLs, equipped with automated gun aiming and positioning systems and advanced command posts. Recent trials at the Pokharan firing ranges in Rajasthan have proven their reliability and precision.

This decision by the Defence Ministry's Defence Acquisition Council marks significant progress in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, heralding a new era in India's defense landscape.