Ministry of Defence signs contracts worth Rs 10,147 Crore to enhance Indian Army’s firepower with PINAKA System

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) on February 6, 2025,signed defence contracts aimed at modernizing the Indian Army’s firepower. These contracts, totalling a value of Rs 10,147 crore, involve Economic Explosive Limited (EEL), Munitions India Limited (MIL), and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The deals cover the procurement of advanced rockets for the PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and upgrades to the SHAKTI Software, reinforcing India’s defence capabilities and self-reliance.

Contracts and Their Value

EEL Contract: A major contract has been inked with Economic Explosive Limited (EEL) for the procurement of Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 rockets (DPICM). These rockets are designed to deny enemy access to specific areas by delivering sub-munitions over a wide area. This system is crucial for targeting mechanized forces, vehicles, and personnel.

MIL Contract: Munitions India Limited (MIL) secured a contract for the High Explosive Pre-Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets, an advanced version of in-service rockets with a greater range and precision, enabling deep strikes into enemy territory.

BEL Contract: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) signed a contract for the upgrade of the SHAKTI Software, enhancing the capabilities of India’s rocket artillery systems.

These contracts represent a pivotal step toward modernizing India’s artillery rocket regiments and expanding its defence infrastructure.

Pinaka System: Evolution, Precision, and Global Recognition

The PINAKA rocket system has garnered attention not only for its strategic importance in enhancing India’s defence capabilities but also as a symbol of self-reliance in line with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the system has seen remarkable upgrades since its inception.

Initially deployed during the 1999 Kargil War, the PINAKA was designed to replace the Soviet-era Grad BM-21 rocket launcher. The system’s advanced capabilities, such as firing 12 rockets in quick succession with a range of up to 60 km, have made it a vital asset for India.

The guided version of the PINAKA further enhances its precision, allowing for accurate targeting of enemy positions. DRDO’s future plans include increasing its range beyond 120 km, with projections reaching up to 200 km. This progression is crucial for countering the advanced long-range rocket systems employed by regional adversaries.

As global demand for advanced defence systems rises, the PINAKA has attracted international attention. Notably, France and Armenia are exploring the possibility of purchasing the system. France, a longstanding defence partner of India, is particularly interested in the Pinaka MBRL (Multiple-Barrel Rocket Launcher). Armenia’s purchase further highlights the system’s strategic value in regional conflicts, specifically its ability to strike multiple targets with rapid succession.