New Delhi: The Defence Ministry is poised to finalize a Rs 10,200 crore contract for ammunition for the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system today, partnering with Solar Industries from Nagpur and the public sector firm Munitions India Limited (MIL). Last week, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the Indian Army’s proposal to procure ammunition, which includes Area Denial Munitions, according to Defence officials.
The project will be shared between Solar Industries, the rocket manufacturer, and MIL, a successor of the former Ordnance Factory Board. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi indicated during his annual press conference on January 13 that the government would soon approve the contract for Pinaka munitions, which comprises Rs 5,700 crore for high-explosive ammunition and Rs 4,500 crore for area denial munitions.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is also advancing a 120 km strike version of the Pinaka rockets, with the first test expected in the next financial year. The rockets approved by the CCS today have a range of approximately 45 kilometers, making them effective against both Pakistan and China.
The Pinaka system has emerged as one of India’s notable indigenous weapon successes, with the Army fully supporting its development. Gen Dwivedi noted that once longer-range versions are available, the Army may reconsider plans for alternative weapon systems. Additionally, the Pinaka has gained traction in the export market, with Armenia purchasing it and several European nations, including France, expressing interest.