In a significant step toward enhancing India’s artillery firepower, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved a ₹10,000 crore deal for procuring ammunition for the Army’s Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system. This strategic approval aligns with the Army’s objective to fortify its combat readiness, particularly along the northern border with China.
Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi mentioned on January 13 that two crucial Pinaka contracts—one for high-explosive pre-fragmented ammunition and another for area denial munitions—were expected to be signed before the fiscal year’s end. With CCS granting clearance, the acquisition of these munitions for six additional Pinaka regiments will proceed. The Indian Army currently operates four regiments of this advanced rocket system.
Pinaka Variants & Capabilities
The Pinaka system consists of two primary variants:
| Variant | Range |
|---|---|
| Pinaka MK-I | Up to 40 km |
| Pinaka MK-II | Up to 60 km |
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), specifically the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), the system is named after Lord Shiva’s legendary bow. Designed to replace the aging Soviet-era Grad BM-21 launchers, Pinaka has played a pivotal role in modernizing India’s rocket artillery.
Battlefield Proven & Growing Global Reach
The Pinaka system’s combat effectiveness was first demonstrated during the Kargil War, where it successfully neutralized enemy positions in rugged mountainous terrain. Its precision and firepower have since made it a critical component of India’s defence strategy.
In a landmark move, India exported the first batch of Pinaka launchers to Armenia, signalling its growing stature in the global defence market. This milestone aligns with India’s push toward self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in defence manufacturing and increasing its footprint as a leading defence exporter.
Modernization & Future Procurements
Alongside the expansion of Pinaka regiments, the Indian Army is ramping up its long-range artillery capabilities with additional procurements, including:
- 100 more K9 Vajra howitzers
- Swarm drones and loitering munitions
- Advanced surveillance systems
These acquisitions reflect a broader effort to equip the Indian Army with cutting-edge weaponry to tackle evolving security challenges and ensure superior combat readiness along critical frontiers.