SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to significantly enhance its standoff strike capabilities through a dual-pronged strategy involving the local production of the Israeli-origin Rampage missile and the development of an air-launched variant of the indigenously developed Pinaka-IV rocket system. According to sources close to idrw.org, the IAF’s recent successful use of the Rampage missile to strike Pakistani airbases during escalated tensions has underscored its effectiveness, prompting plans for its licensed production in India.
Concurrently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is collaborating with the IAF to develop an air-launched version of the Pinaka-IV, a next-generation rocket with a projected range of 250-300 km, to provide a cost-effective, indigenous alternative for long-range air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) missions.
The Rampage, a supersonic, long-range, air-to-ground missile developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Israel Military Industries (IMI), was employed by the IAF to target high-value Pakistani airbases, including Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, Rafiqi in Shorkot, and Murid in Chakwal, during recent hostilities under “Operation Bunyan ul Marsoos.” With a range of approximately 250 km and a 150 kg high-explosive warhead, the Rampage’s precision and ability to penetrate hardened targets have made it a critical asset for the IAF, particularly when launched from platforms like the Su-30 MKI and Rafale fighters.
To reduce dependency on imports and enhance self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India has secured an agreement with Israel for the licensed production of the Rampage missile. This move, facilitated by a partnership between an Indian defense firm—likely Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) or a private player like Adani Defence—and IAI, will ensure a steady supply of the missile while fostering technology transfer. Local production is expected to lower costs, improve maintenance turnaround times, and create opportunities for Indian industry to contribute to the global supply chain for the Rampage. The IAF’s confidence in the missile’s performance, validated through recent combat operations, has driven this decision, with production facilities likely to be established by mid-2026.
In parallel, DRDO is fast-tracking the development of the Pinaka-IV, the latest iteration of the indigenous Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system, which is designed to achieve a range of 250-300 km in its ground-launched configuration. The Indian Army has already urged DRDO to accelerate the development of the Pinaka Guided Mk-III, with a range of 120-150 km, to replace older systems and enhance artillery firepower. Design and Development (D&D) work on the Pinaka-IV is well underway, with trials expected in the coming years.
In a significant development, DRDO has proposed an air-launched variant of the Pinaka-IV tailored for the IAF, capable of being deployed from all fighter types in its inventory, including the Su-30 MKI, Rafale, Mirage 2000, and Tejas LCA. This variant, which would transform the Pinaka-IV into a long-range ALCM, requires minor modifications to the rocket’s airframe to ensure aerodynamic stability and integration with aircraft weapon systems. Additionally, enhancements to the missile’s seeker technology are necessary to enable precision targeting at extended ranges, particularly against moving or fortified targets.
The IAF has expressed keen interest in the air-launched Pinaka-IV program, recognizing its potential to provide a cost-effective, indigenous alternative to imported standoff weapons like the Rampage. With a projected range of 250-300 km when launched from high-altitude fighter jets, the Pinaka-IV ALCM could engage targets deep within enemy territory while keeping IAF platforms beyond the reach of advanced air defense systems. The missile’s compatibility with multiple aircraft types would enhance operational flexibility, allowing the IAF to deploy it across diverse mission profiles.
The simultaneous pursuit of Rampage production and Pinaka-IV development reflects the IAF’s strategy to diversify its standoff strike capabilities while prioritizing indigenous solutions. While the Rampage offers proven performance and immediate operational readiness, the Pinaka-IV ALCM represents a long-term investment in India’s defense industrial base. By integrating advanced guidance systems, such as inertial navigation, GPS, and possibly indigenous seekers like the Manik-II, the air-launched Pinaka-IV could rival imported systems in accuracy and reliability.
The Indian Army’s push for the Pinaka Guided Mk-III and Pinaka-IV underscores the system’s growing role in modernizing India’s artillery forces. The air-launched variant, if successful, would mark a significant milestone in DRDO’s efforts to adapt ground-based systems for air-launched applications, following the precedent set by systems like the Rudram anti-radiation missile. The IAF’s interest in the program, despite the Rampage deal, highlights its intent to drive competition and innovation within India’s defense sector, ensuring cost-competitive options for future procurements.
Developing the air-launched Pinaka-IV will require DRDO to overcome technical challenges, particularly in miniaturizing the rocket’s airframe and integrating advanced seekers without compromising range or payload. The transition from ground-based to air-launched platforms demands rigorous testing to ensure compatibility with fighter jet dynamics and weapon release mechanisms. However, DRDO’s experience with the Pinaka series, coupled with its recent successes in missile technology, positions it well to address these hurdles.
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