SOURCE: AFI
In a remarkable development for Indian defense manufacturing, France is evaluating India’s indigenous Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system to potentially enhance its own defense capabilities. A delegation from the French military is scheduled to visit India soon, where they will conduct a thorough evaluation of the Pinaka system and assess its suitability for France’s specific defense requirements. This move underscores the increasing global recognition of India’s expertise in developing cutting-edge defense technology and systems.
The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) have achieved considerable success in creating and refining the Pinaka MBRL, a versatile and robust artillery system designed to offer swift, long-range, and accurate fire support for ground troops. Congratulatory messages have poured in for DRDO and ARDE, commending their role in designing a system that has not only met the rigorous standards of the Indian armed forces but is also gaining international attention.
The Pinaka MBRL system has proven to be highly effective in multiple combat scenarios. Its main features include:
Versatile Ammunition Options: The Pinaka can deploy a variety of munitions, from high-explosive fragmentation warheads to incendiary and anti-personnel munitions, making it adaptable to various combat scenarios.
Long-Range Precision: Capable of firing a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds with a range extending up to 90 kilometers, the Pinaka system provides substantial firepower support over long distances.
High Mobility: Mounted on a 6×6 or 8×8 truck chassis, Pinaka’s design offers high mobility, enabling it to operate in diverse terrain and allowing rapid relocation after firing.
Enhanced Accuracy with Guidance Kits: The addition of guidance systems on newer models has significantly increased accuracy, allowing Pinaka to engage enemy targets with precision and minimizing collateral damage.
France’s consideration of the Pinaka system highlights a growing trend among international defence forces showing interest in India’s Indigenous defence capabilities. The success of Indian systems like the Pinaka MBRL in domestic and international settings has boosted India’s profile as a reliable defense supplier. France, a key defense partner of India, could benefit significantly from the MBRL’s advanced capabilities in its own operations.
The potential acquisition of the Pinaka system by France signals a new dimension in the Indo-French defense relationship. Both countries share a history of collaboration in various defense domains, with projects such as the Rafale fighter jet acquisition and the co-development of missile technology. With the Pinaka system under evaluation, there is potential for deeper collaboration, including possible joint development or customization of the system to meet the specific needs of the French armed forces.