The Union Cabinet sanctioned a ₹10,200 crore agreement on Wednesday for the procurement of ammunition for the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system. The Cabinet Committee on Security’s resolution intends to greatly improve artillery modernization.

By March 31, two contracts will be finalized—₹5,700 crore for high-explosive pre-fragmented ammunition and ₹4,500 crore for area denial ammunition.

The ammunition will be produced by Nagpur-based private enterprise Solar Group and the state-operated Munitions India Limited. As reported by The Times of India, the manufacturing will be divided in a 60:40 ratio between the two firms.

“As soon as we acquire longer ranges, we may abandon the pursuit of other alternative long-range weaponry we are considering and focus on it (Pinaka),” Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi remarked.

Plans to Expand Pinaka Regiments

The Army presently has four Pinaka regiments, with some launchers stationed in high-altitude regions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) at the Indo-Tibet border. Plans are in motion to induct six more regiments.

Indigenous and Advanced System

Pinaka is a domestically developed multi-barrel rocket launcher system intended for providing high-volume firepower in a brief period. Each launcher is capable of firing 12 rockets in 44 seconds, striking targets up to 40 km away. Incorporated into the Indian Army’s artillery units, its deployment is poised for expansion.

Pinaka’s Precision and Development

Celebrated for its accuracy in high-altitude settings, Pinaka is listed among the most advanced artillery rocket systems worldwide. Created by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), its current range stands at 75 km, with ambitions to extend it to 150 km and ultimately 300 km.