MoD Signs RS 10,147 Cr Defence Contracts For Pinaka MLRS

New Delhi, Feb 7 (KNN) The Ministry of Defence has signed contracts valued at Rs 10,147 crore with two manufacturers for procurement of advanced munitions for the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), marking a significant advancement in India's indigenous defence capabilities.

The contracts, signed on Thursday, involve Economic Explosive Limited supplying Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 and Munitions India Limited providing High Explosive Pre Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets. 

Additionally, the ministry contracted Bharat Electronics Limited for upgrades to the Shakti artillery command and control software.

The ADM Type-1 represents a strategic enhancement to India's artillery capabilities, featuring specialised warheads designed to deliver sub-munitions across extended areas. 

This system specifically targets mechanised forces, vehicles, and personnel, effectively denying territorial access to enemy forces. The HEPF Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets build upon existing technology, offering increased range for precise, long-distance strikes into enemy territory.

These procurement decisions align with the government's comprehensive strategy to boost domestic arms and ammunition production. 

The initiative is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, particularly through component manufacturing in the MSME sector.

The contracts reflect a balanced approach to public-private partnership in defence manufacturing. Economic Explosive Limited represents the private sector, while Munitions India Limited, as a Defence Public Sector Enterprise, maintains its position as India's leading manufacturer of ammunition and explosives.

The development follows successful flight trials of both the Enhanced Pinaka Mk-I Rocket System and Pinaka ADM rocket systems, completed in April 2022. 

During these trials, twenty-four EPRS rockets demonstrated required accuracy and consistency across various ranges, confirming the industry's successful absorption of the technology and readiness for series production.

(KNN Bureau)