Army interested in purchasing new version of Pinaka rockets, know its range

News Topical, Digital Desk : The Indian Army is planning to induct Pinaka rockets with a strike range of 120 kilometers. This move is being taken in an effort to further strengthen its long-range artillery strength after 'Operation Sindoor'. If the proposal moves forward, it will cost around Rs 2500 crore. Defence officials told ANI that these rockets, which can strike targets up to 120 kilometers away, will be developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Their first tests are planned soon. After that, development-cum-production partners will be selected through a bidding process.

The army's proposal will be taken up for approval soon.

Sources said the Army 's proposal will soon be taken up for approval by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC). The Rajnath Singh-led Defence Ministry is promoting the development of indigenous multi-barrel rocket launchers, which have recently been exported to friendly countries. Officials said the rockets of the new 120-km range Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher System will be launched from the existing launcher, which currently can hit targets at a distance of 40 km and over 75 km. The Indian Army is also focusing on strengthening the existing Pinaka regiments and recently placed orders to procure area denial munitions for these rocket regiments.

The Ministry of Defence has signed several contracts

Earlier this year, the Ministry of Defence signed contracts with Economic Explosives Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) for the procurement of Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM) and High Explosive Pre-Fragmented (HEPF) MK-1 (Enhanced) rockets for the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The total cost of these contracts is ₹10,147 crore. Additionally, a contract to upgrade the Shakti software has been signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). These contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

After all, why is Pinaka rocket system so special?

The Pinaka Multiple Launcher Rocket System (MLRS) is a long-range artillery weapon developed by the DRDO. Known for its rapid response and precision, it enhances the Indian Army's modern warfare capabilities. The DRDO is already in advanced stages of developing a 120-kilometer range version of the Pinaka rocket and expects to conduct its first test in the next fiscal year. The Pinaka is one of the most successful indigenous weapons. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has clarified that once the long-range versions of the Pinaka are ready, the Army may abandon plans for other alternative weapons. While Armenia has purchased the Pinaka, several European countries, including France, are showing interest in it.

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