SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
In a significant step toward enhancing its artillery capabilities, the Indian Army, under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to procure rocket ammunition for its in-service 122mm Grad BM-21 Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system. The move underscores the Army’s intent to strengthen its firepower across diverse terrains, from plains and deserts to high-altitude mountainous regions, ensuring operational readiness for a range of artillery tasks. With this RFI, the Army is reaching out to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and authorized Indian vendors to identify capable partners for this critical project.
The 122mm Grad BM-21, a Soviet-origin MBRL system, has been a mainstay of the Indian Army’s rocket artillery regiments for decades. Known for its rapid salvo capability, the system can unleash a barrage of rockets to saturate targets, providing crucial fire support in both offensive and defensive operations. The RFI specifies that the new ammunition must be compatible with the existing in-service launchers, which feature launch tubes approximately 2.8 meters in length. This ensures seamless integration without necessitating modifications to the current fleet—a practical consideration given the system’s widespread deployment.
The Army has outlined clear operational requirements for the rocket ammunition. It must be versatile enough to perform effectively across all terrain configurations, including plains, semi-deserts, deserts, and high-altitude areas—reflecting India’s diverse geography and potential conflict zones along its borders. The ammunition is expected to have defined maximum and minimum ranges, offering flexibility for engaging targets at varying distances. This adaptability is vital for artillery tasks in scenarios ranging from open desert warfare to the rugged peaks of the Himalayas.
Durability and longevity are also key priorities. The RFI mandates a minimum service life of 10 years for the ammunition, with provisions for further extension based on in-house inspections, repairs, and replacement of sub-components if needed. This requirement highlights the Army’s focus on sustainability and cost-effectiveness, ensuring that the ammunition remains viable for prolonged use in India’s challenging operational environments.
The issuance of this RFI signals the Indian Army’s push toward self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aligning with the broader “Make in India” initiative. By inviting Indian vendors and OEMs to participate, the Ministry of Defence is encouraging domestic industry to step up and meet the Army’s stringent standards. The Grad BM-21’s rocket regiments, once reliant on imported ammunition, could soon be equipped with indigenously produced rounds, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and bolstering national security.
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