News Brief
Pinaka
The Ministry of Defence has signed two contracts worth Rs 10,147 crore to procure advanced ammunition for the Pinaka multi-launch rocket system, reinforcing India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reported The Hindustan Times.
The contracts, awarded to Nagpur-based Economic Explosives Limited and Pune-based Munitions India Limited, were finalised after clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) last week.
The procurement includes area denial munitions and enhanced-range rockets, designed to increase battlefield effectiveness.
Area Denial Munition (ADM): Equipped with a specialised warhead, this munition delivers sub-munitions over a wide area, effectively targeting mechanised enemy forces, vehicles, and personnel to restrict enemy movement.
Enhanced-Range Rockets: These rockets provide greater strike capability, allowing the Indian Army to penetrate deep into enemy territory with precision and high lethality.
The modernisation of artillery rocket regiments with these advanced munitions marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s defence capabilities.
The procurement of Pinaka ammunition further solidifies its role as a strategic asset for the Indian Army.
Beyond enhancing military strength, these contracts will significantly boost employment opportunities in the Indian defence manufacturing sector, particularly benefiting Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) involved in component production.
The Defence Ministry emphasised that the projects will create both direct and indirect job opportunities, fostering the growth of domestic defence industries.
Munitions India Limited, one of the seven defence companies formed in 2021 after the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board, continues to play a pivotal role in advancing India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.