New Delhi: In a significant step toward strengthening India’s long-range artillery firepower, the Indian Army has moved a proposal to acquire 120-kilometre range guided Pinaka rockets, marking a major leap in indigenous battlefield strike capability.
The proposal, estimated to be worth over ₹2,500 crore, aims to enhance the Army’s deep-strike precision and long-range deterrence as part of the ongoing post-Operation Sindoor capability enhancement drive.
The advanced rockets are expected to significantly upgrade the operational envelope of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system, reinforcing India’s focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Background of 120 km Guided Pinaka Rockets
The Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher System (MBRL) is one of India’s most successful indigenous artillery platforms, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Originally designed to deliver rapid, high-volume firepower, the system has evolved steadily over the years with increasing range, accuracy, and lethality.
Currently, Pinaka systems in service are capable of firing rockets with ranges of 40 km and 75 km, both of which have been extensively tested and inducted into the Indian Army. The move toward a 120-km guided version represents the next logical step in extending India’s standoff strike capabilities while maintaining high precision.
Details of the 120-km Guided Pinaka Rocket Proposal
According to defence sources, the Indian Army has formally initiated the process for the induction of 120-km long-range guided Pinaka rockets, which will be developed by DRDO.
The proposal is expected to be taken up for clearance by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in the near future.
Key Highlights of 120 km Guided Pinaka Rockets
- Development of precision-guided rockets with a strike range of up to 120 kilometres
- Compatibility with existing Pinaka MBRL launchers
- Indigenous production through Development-cum-Production Partners
- A projected acquisition cost exceeding ₹2,500 crore
Once approved, the project will move into development and testing phases, followed by large-scale induction.
DRDO’s Role and Development Timeline in 120 km Guided Pinaka Rockets Delivery
The DRDO is currently in advanced stages of development of the 120-km strike version of the Pinaka rocket. Defence officials have indicated that the first test trials are expected to be conducted in the next financial year, after which the system will move toward validation and production.
The extended-range version will incorporate:
- Improved rocket motor technology
- Advanced navigation and guidance systems
- Enhanced accuracy and reduced circular error probable (CEP)
These upgrades are aimed at ensuring high-precision strikes against enemy targets located deep inside hostile territory.
Strategic Impact of 120 km Guided Pinaka Rockets on Indian Army’s Artillery Capabilities
The induction of 120-km guided Pinaka rockets will significantly transform the Indian Army’s artillery doctrine.
With the ability to engage targets far beyond traditional frontlines, the system will:
- Enable deep precision strikes
- Reduce reliance on air power for certain target sets
- Enhance deterrence along sensitive borders
- Provide rapid response options during high-intensity conflicts
The new rockets can be launched from the same Pinaka launcher platforms already deployed, ensuring cost-effectiveness and logistical simplicity.
Recent Orders and Strengthening of Pinaka Regiments
The Indian Army has already taken multiple steps to strengthen its existing Pinaka regiments.
Recently, the Ministry of Defence signed contracts with Economic Explosive Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) for the procurement of:
- Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1
- High Explosive Pre-Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-I (Enhanced) rockets
These contracts, collectively valued at ₹10,147 crore, support the operational readiness of Pinaka units and underline the system’s importance in India’s artillery arsenal.
Software and System Upgrades
In addition to ammunition procurement, a separate contract has been signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for upgrades to the SHAKTI fire control software, which enhances accuracy, responsiveness, and network-centric operations of the Pinaka system.
These upgrades were formalized in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, further highlighting the strategic priority accorded to artillery modernisation.
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