In a significant move to bolster self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has established a Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) with NIBE Limited, a private company based in Pune. This agreement, formalized by the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) of DRDO, permits NIBE Limited to manufacture the Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system along with its associated Battery Command Post (BCP).
The Pinaka system, designed and developed domestically by DRDO for the Indian Army, is an essential component of India’s artillery capabilities. The upgraded Mark-I Enhanced version can fire a salvo of rockets with a range of up to 45 kilometers, while the Mark-II Extended Range variant can reach distances of up to 90 kilometers. Additionally, the Guided Pinaka, which underwent successful testing in late 2024, incorporates a Trajectory Correction System that enhances accuracy, making it a critical asset in modern combat scenarios.
This transfer of technology represents a transformational step in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which promotes indigenous defence manufacturing and aims to reduce reliance on foreign imports. The partnership with NIBE Limited aligns with a broader movement to engage private entities in the defence sector, highlighting a departure from traditional reliance on public sector undertakings. NIBE Limited joins other private firms, such as Solar Industries, which previously supported successful trials of the Pinaka system in 2020. Through these collaborations, DRDO seeks to improve production efficiency and respond more swiftly to the operational needs of the Indian armed forces.
Officials have commented that the collaboration is anticipated to generate new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. The defence manufacturing sector currently accounts for approximately 80,000 jobs in the private sector, and the addition of new companies like NIBE Limited is expected to drive further industrial expansion. By cultivating a diverse defence manufacturing ecosystem, India is not only enhancing its capabilities but also positioning itself as a potential exporter of reliable and cost-effective military systems.
The Pinaka system is particularly recognized for its cost-effectiveness, priced at around ₹2.3 crore per unit, making it significantly more affordable than comparable international systems such as the US-made M270, which costs approximately ₹19.5 crore. Continuous technological advancements are being integrated into the Pinaka system, including the incorporation of UAV support and improved navigation systems like the Sigma 30, which was previously supplied by Sagem.
Defence analysts view this agreement as a strategic milestone that underscores India’s independence in designing, developing, and deploying advanced weaponry. As DRDO intensifies its cooperation with private companies, India is steadily advancing towards greater strategic autonomy and enhancing its readiness for defence exports amid an increasingly complex global security landscape.
