Centre approves ₹10,200cr ammunition deal for Pinaka rocket system
What's the story
The Indian government has approved a massive ₹10,200 crore deal to procure ammunition for the indigenously developed Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system. The decision was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and is likely to give a major boost to India's artillery capabilities. The Pinaka system, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is one of the most advanced rocket systems in the world.
Contract specifics
Deal details and ammunition types
The approved deal will be formalized through two contracts by March 31. The first contract, worth ₹5,700 crore, is for high-explosive pre-fragmented ammunition with an extended strike range of 45km. The second contract, valued at ₹4,500 crore, is for area denial ammunition that can reach distances up to 37km. This kind of munition can saturate a target area with multiple bomblets including anti-tank and anti-personnel minelets.
Production plan
Ammunition production and army's future plans
The ammunition for the Pinaka system will be produced by Nagpur-based private firm Solar Group and government-owned Munitions India Limited in a 60:40 ratio. The Indian Army currently operates four Pinaka regiments with some launchers deployed along the Line of Actual Control at the Indo-Tibet border. Plans are also underway to add six more regiments into the military.
Regiment growth
About the Pinaka system
The Pinaka is an indigenous, made-in-India multi-barrel rocket launcher system designed for delivering heavy firepower quickly. Each Pinaka launcher can fire 12 rockets in 44 seconds, targeting areas 40km away. The system is known for delivering precise strikes at high altitudes and has been integrated into Indian Army's artillery units with plans to expand its deployment in future years.
System upgrade
DRDO's future enhancement plans for Pinaka
Currently, the range of the Pinaka system is 75km, but DRDO plans to increase it first to 150km and then up to 300km. This extended range would shift the focus entirely onto Pinaka, possibly phasing out alternative long-range weapon systems. The move highlights India's commitment to strengthening its artillery capabilities through indigenous technology and innovation.