Indian Army Pushes to Expand Pinaka MBRL Procurement

January 21, 2025

The Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) is advancement in India’s artillery capabilities. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it was designed to replace older Soviet-era systems. As of January 2025, the Pinaka has gained international recognition, with countries like Armenia and France expressing interest in its acquisition. The Indian Army plans to expand its orders, denoting the system’s strategic importance. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated that two Pinaka missile system contracts will be signed before March 31, the end of this financial year. One contract, worth ₹5,700 crore, is for high-explosive pre-fragmented ammunition, and the other, worth ₹4,500 crore, is for area denial munitions.

Development and Specifications

Developed by DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in the late 1980s.
Designed to replace the Grad BM-21 rocket launcher.
Features a range of 60 km in its latest version, with future variants targeting up to 120 km.
Capable of launching 12 rockets in 44 seconds.
Utilises a Tatra truck for mobility.

Operational History

First deployed during the Kargil War in 1999.
Played important role in targeting enemy positions in challenging terrains.
Inducted into the Indian Army with multiple regiments operational in high-altitude areas.

International Interest

Armenia received the first lot of Pinaka systems in early 2025.
Countries in ASEAN, Africa, and Europe have shown interest in acquiring the system.
Expected to enhance India’s defence exports .

Future Orders and Contracts

The Indian Army plans to finalise contracts worth Rs 10,200 crore for Pinaka systems.
Two major contracts include Rs 5,700 crore for ammunition and Rs 4,500 crore for area denial munitions.
Additional orders for advanced towed artillery gun systems are also anticipated.

Variants of Pinaka

Pinaka Mk-1 – Range of 48 km.
Pinaka Mk-I Enhanced – Range of 60 km.
Pinaka Mk-II – Range of 90 km.
Pinaka Mk-III – Under development with a projected range of 120 km.

Operational Structure

Each Pinaka battery typically consists of six launchers and can fire a total of 72 rockets.
A single battery can neutralise an area of 1,000 m x 800 m.
Plans to increase operational regiments from 16 to 22 by 2028.

Strategic Impact

The Pinaka MBRL is positioned as a mainstay of India’s artillery capabilities, enhancing firepower while reducing soldier casualties. Its development reflects India’s growing emphasis on indigenous defence technology and international collaboration in military hardware.

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