In a significant development for India's defence sector, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh officially flagged off the first batch of guided Pinaka rocket systems from a facility in Nagpur on Sunday. This shipment is bound for Armenia, showcasing India's growing prowess as a reliable supplier of advanced military technology.
Pinaka System: A Game-Changer in Defence Exports
The Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher is renowned for its exceptional accuracy and impressive range capabilities. Variants of this system can strike targets at distances up to 75 kilometers, with the latest trial version even achieving a remarkable 120-kilometer range. India has been actively promoting the Pinaka as a key component of its expanding arms export portfolio.
Rajnath Singh emphasized that the export of these missiles, developed at the Solar Defence & Aerospace facility, demonstrates the robust capabilities of India's defence industry. He stated clearly, "India is no longer just an importer but is rapidly moving towards becoming an exporter."
Record Growth in Defence Production
The minister highlighted substantial growth in India's defence sector over the past decade. Defence exports have surged from less than Rs 1,000 crore ten years ago to a record Rs 24,000 crore today. Similarly, domestic defence production has expanded dramatically from Rs 46,425 crore in 2014 to an impressive Rs 1.51 lakh crore currently.
This growth is largely attributed to increasing participation from the private sector, which has injected innovation and efficiency into the defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Army Induction and Technological Advancements
The Indian Army has already incorporated the Pinaka Mk-I Enhanced variant after successful trials in April 2022. Originally designed with a 37.5-kilometer range, the Pinaka system has undergone continuous upgrades to enhance both its range and overall effectiveness.
In a major procurement move, the Army is now considering the induction of 120-kilometer strike range rockets under a proposal worth approximately Rs 2,500 crore. Trials for these new rockets were conducted in December 2025. Notably, these advanced rockets can be launched from the same launcher currently used for 40-kilometer and 75-plus kilometer variants.
Armenia Deal and Delivery Timeline
Armenia solidified its partnership with India by signing a substantial agreement worth Rs 2,000 crore in September 2022. This deal includes:
- Four Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher batteries
- Anti-tank rockets
- Ammunition and other essential equipment
- Multi-barrel launch systems
- Guided rockets designed for precision strikes
Deliveries of the initial Pinaka unguided systems commenced in July 2023 and concluded by November 2024. The recent flag-off ceremony marks the beginning of shipments for the guided rocket systems, representing the next phase of this strategic defence partnership.
International Interest and Indigenous Development
While Armenia stands as the first confirmed buyer of the Pinaka system, several other nations have expressed keen interest. Potential buyers include countries in Southeast Asia and European nations like France, indicating broad international appeal for India's defence technology.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation initiated Pinaka development in the late 1980s as an indigenous alternative to Russian-made systems such as the 'Grad,' which remain in service. Production of Pinaka systems now involves collaboration with Indian entities including:
- Tata Advanced Systems
- Solar Industries
- Munitions India Ltd
- Economic Explosives Ltd
Expanding Export Portfolio
Beyond the Pinaka system, India is actively marketing its indigenous Akash missile shield for international exports. Global recognition of the Akash system's capabilities increased significantly after its performance in Operation Sindoor.
Armenia again emerged as the first buyer, receiving its initial Akash battery in November 2024 under a $720 million deal for fifteen missile systems. Other countries showing interest in the Akash shield include the Philippines, Brazil, Egypt, and Vietnam, demonstrating growing global confidence in India's defence manufacturing capabilities.
This export milestone represents more than just a transaction; it signals India's strategic shift from defence importer to emerging exporter of sophisticated military technology. The successful delivery of guided Pinaka rockets to Armenia establishes a precedent for future international defence partnerships and reinforces India's position in the global arms market.
