In a major step toward boosting long-range artillery capabilities following Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army is moving ahead with a proposal to induct 120-km strike range Pinaka rockets, a project estimated at around ₹2,500 crore, defence officials told ANI.
According to officials, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will develop the new-generation Pinaka rockets, with the first trials expected to take place in the near future. After successful testing, the rockets will be co-developed and produced with Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs), who will be selected through a competitive bidding process.
The Army’s proposal is expected to be tabled for approval before the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) shortly, sources said.
Indigenous Pinaka System Gets a Major Upgrade
The Defence Ministry under Rajnath Singh has been focused on advancing indigenous multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) capabilities, with the Pinaka system emerging as one of India’s standout defence exports in recent years.
The upcoming 120-km range rockets will be compatible with existing Pinaka launchers, which currently deploy rockets with strike ranges of 40 km and 75+ km. The Army is simultaneously working on strengthening its existing Pinaka regiments and recently placed orders for area denial ammunition for these units.
Recent Contracts Strengthen Artillery Arsenal
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Defence signed multiple contracts to enhance the Pinaka ecosystem:
- Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM) and
- High Explosive Pre-Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 Enhanced Rockets
These were contracted from Economic Explosives Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) at a total cost of ₹10,147 crore.
Additionally, an upgrade contract for the SHAKTI software was signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). All agreements were inked in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
Pinaka: A Proven Indian Success Story
Developed by DRDO, the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) has become a key component of India’s long-range firepower, known for:
- rapid response,
- precision engagement, and
- high-volume fire capability.
DRDO is already in the advanced stages of developing the new 120-km variant, with testing expected in the next financial year.
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has strongly backed the system, noting that once extended-range versions are ready, the Army may drop plans for alternate long-range weapons.
Growing Export Demand
Pinaka has also emerged as a robust export product. Armenia has already inducted the system, while several European nations—including France—have shown interest in acquiring it.
With the induction of the 120-km variant, India is expected to significantly enhance its deep-strike artillery capability, marking a major leap in indigenous firepower development.
