India News : India’s growing stature as a global defence exporter is gaining fresh momentum, with France showing strong interest in acquiring the indigenous Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system. According to media reports, France is exploring the option of procuring Pinaka to modernise its ageing M270 Lance Roquettes Unitaire systems, marking a significant boost for India’s defence exports.
A high-level French delegation recently visited India to evaluate the performance, launcher platform, and ammunition of the Pinaka system. Discussions between Indian and French officials are reportedly underway at senior levels. Defence experts believe this interest is also linked to the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations, especially as India prepares for a major deal to acquire 114 next-generation Rafale fighter jets from France.
Pinaka is considered one of the world’s most competitive rocket artillery systems, offering strong firepower at a significantly lower cost. It competes directly with the US-made HIMARS and Russia’s Tornado-S, while remaining far more economical.
In service with the Indian Army for nearly three decades, Pinaka has undergone continuous upgrades and proved its effectiveness during the Kargil conflict. The current version has a range of 75–90 km, while the Pinaka Mk-3 extends up to 120–130 km. Development is also underway on the Mk-4 variant, expected to reach ranges of up to 300 km.
Cost remains a decisive factor. A Pinaka system is estimated at around ₹2.3 crore, compared to nearly ₹19.5 crore for HIMARS. Analysts say this cost-effectiveness, combined with proven performance, is driving interest from advanced economies like France, signalling India’s emergence as a serious global defence manufacturing power.
