France evaluating India’s Pinaka rocket system for its use

• France is considering India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launch (MBRL) system for its requirements and is soon going to carry out a detailed evaluation of the system, according to a senior French Army officer.

Highlights:

• France is evaluating India’s indigenously developed Pinaka MBRL system as a potential candidate to replace its aging M270 Lance-Roquettes Unitaire (LRU) rocket systems. A special French Army mission will soon visit India for an in-depth assessment of Pinaka’s launcher and ammunition, as confirmed by Brigadier General Stephane Richou.
• This decision is part of a broader search involving 3-4 top systems to modernize France’s artillery capabilities.

Background of Pinaka and Global Interest:

• Export Success: Armenia became the first export customer of the Pinaka system, and the system has attracted interest from other countries due to its capabilities.
• Specifications: The Pinaka Mk1 has a range of 38 km and can deploy a variety of ammunition. India is also advancing trials of an extended range guided version of Pinaka, expected to reach up to 75 km, with plans for even longer ranges (120-300 km) in the future.

India-France Defence Cooperation:

• During the recent 20th Army-to-Army Staff Talks, Brig. Gen. Richou emphasized strengthening Army cooperation to match the depth of collaboration already seen between the two countries' Air Force and Navy. He presented a letter from the French Army Chief to the Indian Army Chief, inviting him to France next year, signaling a deeper partnership focus.

Scope of Bilateral Collaboration:

• Domains of Cooperation: The current Army discussions cover capabilities, training, equipment sharing, and leadership exchange.
• Bilateral Exercises: The next Exercise Shakti will focus on high-altitude warfare, further strengthening joint military training.
• Geopolitical Alignment: Brig. Gen. Richou noted France’s alignment with India on issues such as UN peacekeeping efforts, highlighting shared principles on respecting international law.

Broader Defence Negotiations:

• India and France are also engaged in other defense deals, including advanced negotiations for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three additional Scorpene submarines. Discussions are underway for co-developing a jet engine for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Prelims Takeaways

• Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launch (MBRL) system
• Exercise Shakti