SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
India’s Guided Pinaka missile system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has emerged as a highly cost-effective and precision-guided artillery weapon, with a unit cost of ?70 lakh. This positions it as a competitive alternative to similar global systems like the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Unitary round developed by Lockheed Martin, which costs approximately ?1.2 crore per unit.
When compared to Lockheed Martin’s GMLRS Unitary, the Guided Pinaka proves to be a more cost-effective solution, with the unit price being approximately 60% lower. The GMLRS Unitary round, priced at around ?1.2 crore per unit, delivers precision strike capability with a 200-pound warhead and a range exceeding 70 kilometers. The cost differential becomes even more significant considering that the Guided Pinaka, priced at ?70 lakh per unit, offers the same range and mission capabilities, making it a formidable competitor in the market.
This cost-effectiveness is especially notable for defense forces in emerging economies or nations with budget constraints but who still seek high-performance, precision artillery systems. The Guided Pinaka’s price point offers nations a unique opportunity to modernize their artillery capabilities without the financial burden that often comes with acquiring foreign-made systems.
Following its successful deployment and combat use by the Indian Army, the Guided Pinaka system has gained significant traction in the global defense market. After Armenia expressed interest and signed agreements to procure the system, other countries have begun to take note of its cost advantages and performance capabilities. The growing international interest is a testament to the missile’s competitive edge and the strategic advantages of acquiring a domestically developed system, particularly for countries in regions with escalating security concerns.
As global demand for modern artillery systems rises, the Guided Pinaka offers a strong export opportunity for India. The system’s competitive pricing and robust capabilities make it a compelling choice for countries looking for precision strike capabilities at a fraction of the cost of comparable foreign alternatives. Moreover, indigenous development ensures that the system is adaptable to the specific requirements of each client nation, further increasing its appeal in the international market.
India’s defense export strategy, which focuses on bolstering self-reliance while fostering strong defense relations with other nations, is further reinforced by the success of Guided Pinaka in the global market. By offering a reliable, effective, and affordable solution, India is positioning itself as a key player in the global defense exports sector, particularly in the growing market for advanced artillery systems.
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