India Strengthens Artillery Power with Pinaka Rocket System Expansion

Although the original plan called for raising all six regiments by 2024, the current priority is to immediately raise two regiments in response to new security threats.

Digital Desk: To strengthen its artillery firepower along the northern borders with China, the Indian Army is in the process of setting up two new regiments equipped with the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System. 

The Pinaka rocket system, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is a multiple rocket launcher designed to deliver rapid firepower against critical targets within a short timeframe. Each regiment consists of three batteries of six launchers equipped with automated gun-aiming and positioning systems, marking a significant advancement in India's artillery capabilities.

The Defense Acquisition Council's approval in 2018 to build six more regiments served as the impetus for the decision to enlarge the Pinaka regiments. Contracts were subsequently signed in 2020 with Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), Tata Power Company Limited, and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) to supply the necessary equipment.

Although the original plan called for raising all six regiments by 2024, the current priority is to immediately raise two regiments in response to new security threats, the Financial Express reports. These regiments' soldiers are presently undergoing training, which should be finished in the upcoming six months.

With the Pinaka system, India is demonstrating its commitment to updating its military hardware by replacing the antiquated Grad BM-21 rocket system. With its quick response capabilities and high pointing accuracy. Engaging enemy targets in time-sensitive areas along borders is a good fit for the Pinaka system.

India's indigenous Pinaka rocket system has gained international attention, with exports to Armenia during the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. Expressions of interest from countries like Indonesia and Nigeria underscore the system's global adoption potential. It is reinforcing India's position in the international arms market, the Financial Express says.

The expansion of Pinaka regiments represents a significant milestone in India's efforts to strengthen its artillery power and enhance defensive abilities along its northern borders with China.