India's Defence Modernization Accelerated with ₹10,147 Crore Rocket Procurement Agreements

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India's Defence Modernization Accelerated with ₹10,147 Crore Rocket Procurement Agreements

Synopsis

India's recent defence contracts worth ₹10,147 crore with EEL, MIL, and BEL aim to enhance artillery capabilities and support the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, generating employment opportunities and promoting self-reliance.

Key Takeaways

  • ₹10,147 crore worth of contracts signed with EEL, MIL, and BEL.
  • Enhancement of the Indian Army's firepower through advanced rockets.
  • Increased operational range and precision strikes.
  • Significant employment generation in the MSME sector.
  • Support for indigenous industries and national security.

New Delhi, Feb 6 (NationPress) In a significant initiative to bolster India's defence capabilities and realize the vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has finalized contracts totaling ₹10,147 crore with three major Indian firms: Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), Munitions India Ltd (MIL), and Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL).

The agreements are intended to augment the firepower of the Indian Army through sophisticated rockets for the PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). This marks a crucial step forward in the modernization of India's artillery capabilities.

Under these agreements, EEL will deliver the Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM), while MIL will supply the High Explosive Pre Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets. These state-of-the-art rockets will significantly enhance the army's ability to execute precise and lethal strikes. They will also expand operational reach deep into enemy territory.

The ADM Type-1 rockets feature specialized warheads engineered to deploy sub-munitions across an extensive area, effectively targeting enemy mechanized units, vehicles, and personnel, thereby denying access to certain zones. On the other hand, the HEPF Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets, an upgraded variant of the current HEPF rockets, provide an extended range, making them suitable for high-accuracy strikes deep within enemy lines.

The acquisition of these advanced munitions signifies a transformative step in the modernization of the Artillery Rocket Regiments, consistent with India's ongoing efforts to strengthen its defence framework. The new rockets will equip the Indian Army with the capability for long-range, highly precise strikes, enhancing the nation’s firepower at the front lines.

In addition, a contract for updates to the SHAKTI Software has been established with Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), further advancing the technological sophistication of India's defence systems.

Beyond enhancing defence capabilities, these initiatives are projected to create considerable employment opportunities, particularly within the Indian MSME sector, through component manufacturing. These projects also align with the government's vision of self-sufficiency in defence production, fostering indigenous industries to play a pivotal role in national security.

This strategic initiative reaffirms India’s dedication to developing a resilient and self-sufficient defence infrastructure, reinforcing its status as a significant player in global defence technology and a proud advocate of the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' campaign.