France Evaluates India’s Pinaka Rocket System for Acquisition

Why in the news?

France is assessing India’s Pinaka rocket system for its military needs, considering its capabilities as part of a broader review of artillery options amid increased defence cooperation.

France Evaluates India’s Pinaka Rocket System for Acquisition

About France’s Interest in India’s Pinaka Rocket System:

  • France is considering India’s Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launch system (MBRL) as part of its search for new artillery systems. Brigadier-General Stephane Richou of the French Army stated that France would evaluate 3-4 potential suppliers, including India, and a specialised mission will soon visit India for a detailed evaluation of Pinaka’s launcher and ammunition.
  • France is seeking to replace its M270 Lance-Roquettes Unitaire (LRU) rocket systems, especially after transferring six of its 13 M270 units to Ukraine.
  • Armenia recently became the first country to import the Pinaka, and several other countries have also shown interest.

Features and Advancements of Pinaka:

  • The Indian Army has four operational Pinaka regiments, with six more on order. The Pinaka Mk-I has a range of 38 km and supports various types of ammunition, while the guided extended-range variant in development aims to increase the range to over 75 km, with future plans for ranges up to 120 km and 300 km.
  • India and France are expanding defence ties across land, air, and naval domains, and Pinaka’s evaluation is part of this growing partnership. France has also invited the Indian Army Chief to visit next year, highlighting the importance of cooperation.

    About Pinaka:

    • Type: Pinaka is a Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) developed by DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE).
    • First Use: Deployed in the Kargil War, effectively neutralising enemy positions on high-altitude terrain.
    • Purpose: Delivers rapid, lethal fire against various targets, including enemy troops, vehicles, and fuel/ammunition depots.
    • Features: Equipped with a multi-tube launcher vehicle, replenishment vehicles, and command post vehicle.
    • Capability: Fires 12 rockets in 48 seconds, covering 700 × 500 square metres.
    • Range: 60 to 75 kilometres, mounted on a Tatra truck for mobility.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times