New DelhiThe Indian Army is looking to add a 120 km strike range in a proposal valued at about Rs 2500 crore in an attempt to bolster its long-range artillery capabilities following Operation Sindoor. The development coincides with the defense ministry under Rajnath Singh's leadership advocating for the development of domestic multi-barrel rocket launchers, which have recently been exported to friendly foreign nations.
According to defense officials who spoke to ANI, the Defense Research and Development Organization would develop the rockets that could hit targets at a distance of 120 kilometers. The first trials are scheduled to take place soon, after which they would be developed with the Development-cum-Production Partners who would be selected through a bidding process.
The Army's request for approval will be discussed shortly.According to sources, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) will shortly consider the Army's proposal for project approval.
According to officials, the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system's new 120 km strike range rockets could be fired from the same launcher that can currently hit targets at 40 km and more than 75 km.
The Indian Army is considering bolstering its Pinaka regiments.The Indian Army recently placed orders to purchase area denial ammunition for these rocket regiments in an effort to bolster the current Pinaka regiments.
For the PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), the Ministry of Defense earlier this year signed contracts with Economic Explosive Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) to purchase Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM) and High Explosive Pre Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets, respectively, at a total cost of Rs 10,147 crore.
In addition, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and SHAKTI Software have signed a contract for upgrades. Rajesh Kumar Singh, the Defense Secretary, was present when the contracts were signed.
Understand the Pinaka Multiple Launcher Rocket System in its entirety.The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) created the Pinaka Multiple Launcher Rocket System (MLRS), a long-range artillery weapon. The Pinaka system, which is renowned for its quick reaction and accuracy, improves the Indian Army's performance in contemporary combat.
A 120-kilometer strike version of the Pinaka rocket is currently being developed by the DRDO, and its first test is anticipated to take place in the upcoming fiscal year.
The Army is fully supporting the missiles, which are one of the most successful Indigenous weapon systems. Chief of Army Staff Gen. Upendra Dwivedi has already stated that the force may abandon plans for other alternative weapons as soon as longer-range Pinaka versions are prepared. Since Armenia purchased the Pinaka and numerous European nations, including France, expressed interest in it, it has been a significant success in the export market.
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