India is at a pivotal moment regarding its national security and border defence.
With immediate neighbours actively expanding their military arsenals—such as China’s formidable People's Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF) and Pakistan's newly formed Army Rocket Force Command (ARFC)—the creation of an Indian Integrated Rocket Force (IRF) is a critical necessity.
First proposed in 2021 by the late Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, this dedicated command would unite non-nuclear ballistic and cruise missiles under one umbrella.
Consolidating these assets, which are currently dispersed across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, will significantly enhance coordination, speed up decision-making, and allow for highly accurate strikes from a safe distance without crossing the threshold into nuclear warfare.
Flexible Deterrence in a Complex Neighbourhood
Facing security challenges from two nuclear-armed adversaries, India requires adaptable military options for potential localised conflicts or border standoffs.While the nuclear arsenal remains a vital safeguard managed by the Strategic Forces Command, relying solely on it limits tactical flexibility.
A dedicated conventional rocket force provides the ability to execute precise, devastating strikes on enemy infrastructure, command centres, and logistics hubs during a limited war or border incursion.
This approach, often referred to as "non-contact warfare," minimises casualties among frontline troops while severely penalising aggressive actions by adversaries.
A Diverse and Indigenous Arsenal
India's push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative has yielded a highly capable suite of indigenous weapon systems ready to equip the future IRF.A well-rounded missile force would rely on several key technologies:
- Tactical Ballistic Missiles: The Pralay quasi-ballistic missile is a standout system, boasting a range of 150 to 500 km. Capable of mid-air manoeuvres to evade enemy interceptors, Pralay recently completed successful salvo user trials in late December 2025, paving the way for its imminent induction into the armed forces.
- Supersonic Cruise Missiles: The versatile BrahMos missile, now capable of striking high-value targets up to 800 km away, offers unmatched speed that easily overwhelms standard air defence systems.
- Subsonic Deep-Strike Missiles: Systems developed under the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) programme, such as derivatives of the Nirbhay missile, are designed for 1,000 km strikes. Powered by domestic engines like the Manik turbofan, they can travel at low altitudes to avoid radar detection.
- Multi-Barrel Rocket Launchers: Systems like the Pinaka, which is currently being upgraded to reach up to 120 km, will form the crucial first layer of medium-range conventional strike capability.
The Path Forward
While there have been administrative delays and debates over resource allocation between the tri-services, the momentum for establishing the IRF is accelerating.The successful testing and impending deployment of Pralay missile regiments, alongside the advancement of extended-range BrahMos variants, demonstrate that the technological foundation is ready.
Formalising a clear, independent command structure for conventional rockets will not only correct the current operational asymmetry but also send a strong message about India's commitment to defending its sovereignty in an era of rapid technological warfare.
