The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹10,200 crore deal to procure ammunition for the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system. This decision, made by the Cabinet Committee on Security, aims to strengthen artillery modernization.

Contracts to Be Signed by March 31

To move forward, officials will sign two contracts by March 31. The first deal, worth ₹5,700 crore, covers high-explosive pre-fragmented ammunition. Meanwhile, the second contract, valued at ₹4,500 crore, focuses on area denial ammunition.

Production by Private and Government Firms

For manufacturing, Nagpur-based Solar Group and state-owned Munitions India Limited will produce the ammunition. According to The Times of India, both companies will share production in a 60:40 ratio.

Army Chief Highlights Pinaka’s Importance

Speaking about the system’s future, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi said, "As soon as we get longer ranges, we might drop plans for other alternate long-range weapons we are looking at and concentrate on it (Pinaka)." His statement indicates that the Army sees Pinaka as a key asset for long-range strikes.

Army Plans to Expand Pinaka Regiments

Currently, the Indian Army operates four Pinaka regiments. Notably, some launchers are stationed in high-altitude areas along the Line of Actual Control at the Indo-Tibet border. To enhance its firepower, the Army now plans to induct six more regiments.

Indigenous and Advanced Rocket System

Pinaka is an indigenous, made-in-India multi-barrel rocket launcher. As a result, it delivers heavy firepower in a short time. Each launcher can fire 12 rockets in just 44 seconds, hitting targets up to 40 km away. The Army has already integrated Pinaka into its artillery units and intends to expand its deployment.

Pinaka Ensures Precise Strikes

One of Pinaka’s major strengths is its accuracy. It can deliver precise strikes even at high altitudes. Consequently, it is considered one of the most advanced artillery rocket systems globally.

DRDO Continues to Enhance Pinaka

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed Pinaka. At present, its range stands at 75 km. However, DRDO has ambitious plans to extend it to 150 km and eventually 300 km.