French Army Evaluating 'Made in India' Pinaka Rocket Launcher System for Potential Procurement

In a significant development that underscores India's growing prowess in defence manufacturing, the French Army is evaluating the indigenously developed Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system (MBRL). This move signals a deepening of defence ties between France and India, with potential for future collaborations and acquisitions.

Brigadier General Stephane Richou of the French Army confirmed the evaluation, stating, "We are evaluating Pinaka because we need a system like that, and we are evaluating this among the other systems of the highest countries." He emphasized that India is now considered among the top tier of global arms manufacturers.

This evaluation is not merely a business transaction, but part of a broader strategic partnership between the two nations. "This is much more than a business partnership; this is cooperation," stated Brigadier General Richou, highlighting the long-term nature of the relationship. This cooperation extends beyond equipment exchanges to include technology transfer, skill enhancement, and joint innovation, strengthening India's role in the global defence industry.

Developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with domestic companies like Solar Industries, Larsen & Toubro, and Tata, the Pinaka MBRL has proven its effectiveness and versatility. With a range exceeding 40 kilometers and the ability to deliver rapid and concentrated firepower, Pinaka has become a crucial asset for the Indian Army.

France's interest in the Pinaka system not only validates its capabilities but also highlights India's emergence as a reliable source of advanced defence technology. This aligns with France's strategy to diversify its defence imports and leverage India's maturing defence production ecosystem.

The Pinaka system has already seen export success with orders from Armenia, and several other countries have expressed interest. This potential acquisition by France would further solidify India's position as a key player in the international arms market.

Brigadier General Richou also drew attention to the existing collaboration between France and India, citing the co-development of Scorpene class submarines in India as a prime example of their deep technical partnership. He further emphasized that France views India as a "strategic partner," with defence ties that extend beyond mere transactions.

This evaluation of the Pinaka system marks another milestone in India's journey to become a major defence exporter. With successful tests and deployments, Pinaka has the potential to meet the needs of international militaries, positioning India as a provider of strategic defence solutions.

 

[abhinav srivastava]

French purchasing Pinaka, ATAGS or Arjun would be good. For me it would be great if Israel purchases a good amount of such systems.

 

[Neal.B]

This will be a major boost for India's defence export.

 

[Anant]

Unlikely to materialise given the other contenders for France's MBRL program to replace the old M270 systems, but this is a good sign.

 

[Anant]

French purchasing Pinaka, ATAGS or Arjun would be good. For me it would be great if Israel purchases a good amount of such systems.

Pinaka is just about marginally possible, though highly unlikely given the contenders.

As for ATAGS, this will not happen as France does not maintain static / towed artillery as part of their inventory. Unless they want to re-enter that space, no sales here.

As for the Arjun, that is simply impossible. They are upgrading their Leclerc MBTs to the Leclerc XLR standard, and are working with Germany to develop a successor to the Leclerc and Leopard 2 families. Moreover, even if France wanted to import MBTs, they have far, far better options than the Arjun.

 

[sanket]

French purchasing Pinaka, ATAGS or Arjun would be good. For me it would be great if Israel purchases a good amount of such systems.

Many Foreign countries are showing interest in Defence product From Armenia, Morrocco to France ,But question is IA will purchase WaHP, even after Morrocco ordered IA should Induct first few batches & From feedback & input Further Modification should b done & then final Induction should b done in large Numbers, Engine is already developed with 600 hp after passing trials WaHP will b more Indigenous than earlier need to see whether IA show interest in WaHP with Indigenous Engine or in Mahindra model with Indigenous Engine

 

[GolGappa]

We shd focus on Global south to sell weapons. These news look good in Headlines only

 

[Kira]

Unlikely to materialise given the other contenders for France's MBRL program to replace the old M270 systems, but this is a good sign.

I believe some other modern MLRS will be selected by the French,as Pinaka does not have long range to to counter longer ranged Russian MLRS. Although, only the Turks deploy any modern MLRS that may satisfy French requirements,while both HIMARS and ATACMS are more of a tactical missile system rather than rocket artillery.

 

[Sandeep]

We have developed a reliable, accurate, efficient and cost effective MBRL. We should definitely advertise and sell it if we can. India offers quality weapons at cheaper prices which NATO members urgently need and are looking for.