New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has signed contracts with Economic Explosive Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) for the procurement of Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM) and High Explosive Pre-Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets, respectively, for the PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The total value of these contracts stands at ₹10,147 crore. Additionally, a contract for upgrades in SHAKTI Software has been signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The agreements were formalised in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on 6 February 2025.
The ADM Type-1 for the PINAKA MLRS is designed with a specialised warhead to deploy a significant quantity of sub-munitions over a broad area, effectively targeting mechanised forces, vehicles, and personnel. This capability ensures the denial of specific areas to enemy forces. The HEPF Mk-1 (E) rockets represent an advanced iteration of the in-service HEPF rockets, featuring an extended range to enable deep strikes into enemy territory with greater precision and lethality.
The acquisition of ADM Type-1 (DPICM) and HEPF Mk-1 (E) rockets marks a major milestone in the modernisation of the Artillery Rocket Regiments. These advanced munitions will significantly enhance the Indian Army’s firepower by facilitating precise, long-range strikes.
Beyond strengthening national defence capabilities, these projects hold substantial potential for both direct and indirect employment generation. By promoting the Indian MSME sector through the manufacturing of components, this initiative aligns with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision. The procurement represents a crucial step towards the modernisation of India’s defence infrastructure while simultaneously empowering indigenous industries.