Indian Army to Acquire Advanced Pinaka Munitions Worth ₹10,200 Crore by March 31

The Indian Army is set to take a significant leap in enhancing its artillery capabilities by finalizing two major contracts for advanced munitions tailored for the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system. These contracts, worth a combined ₹10,200 crore, are anticipated to be signed before March 31, 2025, according to Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi.

High-Explosive Pre-Fragmented Shells: Extended Lethality

One of the contracts, valued at ₹5,700 crore, focuses on the procurement of high-explosive pre-fragmented (HEPF) shells with an impressive range of 45 kilometers. These shells are engineered to deliver devastating damage by dispersing pre-fragmented projectiles upon detonation. This design is particularly effective against enemy personnel, fortifications, and light-armored vehicles, making it a highly versatile battlefield asset.

The extended range and precision of these shells provide the Pinaka system with enhanced strike capabilities, allowing it to engage targets located deep within enemy lines. The use of advanced guidance systems further ensures accuracy and efficiency, minimizing collateral damage.

Area Denial Munitions: Creating Lethal Barriers

The second contract, estimated at ₹4,500 crore, pertains to the acquisition of area denial munitions (ADM) with a range of 37 kilometers. ADMs are a critical component of modern warfare, designed to saturate a specific target zone with multiple bomblets, including anti-tank and anti-personnel mines.

These munitions are invaluable for disrupting enemy movement and denying access to strategically important locations. By deploying a dense network of explosives over an area, ADMs create a lethal barrier that can halt advancing forces and protect key defensive positions.

Pinaka MBRL System: A Beacon of Indigenous Excellence

The Pinaka MBRL system, developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), stands as a testament to India's growing self-reliance in defense technology. Produced in collaboration with Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) and Tata Power SED, the Pinaka system has already proven its mettle in various operational scenarios.

Capable of launching a salvo of 12 rockets in less than 45 seconds, the Pinaka system is known for its rapid-fire capability and precision targeting. It offers a maximum range of up to 75 kilometers, depending on the type of munition used, and is equipped with advanced navigation and fire control systems. These features make it an indispensable tool for providing heavy fire support to ground troops during combat operations.

Strategic Implications

The addition of HEPF shells and ADMs to the Pinaka system's arsenal will significantly enhance the Indian Army's operational flexibility. These munitions will not only strengthen India's deterrence capabilities but also provide a tactical edge in high-stakes scenarios.

The focus on indigenous production underscores the government's commitment to the "Make in India" initiative, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and fostering the domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem.

Specifications of the New Munitions

• High-Explosive Pre-Fragmented Shells:

  • Range: 45 kilometers
  • Purpose: Anti-personnel and light-armored vehicle attacks
  • Key Feature: Pre-fragmented projectiles for maximum lethality

• Area Denial Munitions:

  • Range: 37 kilometers
  • Purpose: Anti-tank and anti-personnel area saturation
  • Key Feature: Bomblets for creating extensive lethal barriers

Future Prospects

With these acquisitions, the Indian Army is not only modernizing its artillery but also aligning its capabilities with global standards. The Pinaka MBRL system, equipped with these advanced munitions, will serve as a critical force multiplier, enhancing India's preparedness for a wide range of combat scenarios.

This development marks another milestone in India's journey toward becoming a defense powerhouse, with an emphasis on indigenous innovation and self-sufficiency.