Indian Army and TASL officials (Photo: TASL)
New Delhi: Leading private sector giant Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has been awarded a supply order to support the Indian Army’s 510 Advance Base Workshop (ABW) in the overhaul cum upgradation of in-service first-generation Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) and Battery Command Posts (BCPs).
This landmark public–private partnership was formalised on Tuesday with the handing over of Supply Order by the Indian Army to Tata Advanced Systems in a formal ceremony at New Delhi.
The programme will leverage Tata Advanced Systems’ technical expertise, certified spares, and close coordination with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to ensure sustained availability and peak performance of one of the Indian Army’s frontline artillery systems.
Under the collaboration, in the initial phase, Tata Advanced Systems and 510 ABW will jointly undertake a pilot overhaul of select Pinaka MLRS and BCPs.
Following the completion of this phase, the remaining Pinaka MLRS and BCPs will be overhauled by 510 ABW of the Corps of EME with Tata Advanced Systems providing critical spares, quality assurance and technical support.
Tata Advanced Systems partnered with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to design and develop Pinaka MLRS, an all-weather, indirect fire artillery weapon capable of delivering high-volume firepower against critical targets.
Tata Advanced Systems has achieved nearly 80% indigenous content, reflecting a high degree of operational and strategic autonomy and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Tata Advanced Systems has delivered a significant number of Pinaka MLRS which are currently operationally deployed by the Indian Army, further strengthening the company’s land combat systems portfolio.
About the Pinaka MLRS
Pinaka MLRS is mounted on an 8x8 High Mobility Vehicle meeting latest emission norms. It features automated "shoot-and-scoot" operations for rapid deployment and high survivability in tough terrain.
A microprocessor-based all-electric servo drive system, coupled with Inertial Navigation System based digital control and positioning system giving it a “Net Centric” capability, enabling precise targeting in minimal time.
The launcher fires Pinaka Mk-I rockets and will be able to fire guided rockets with different types of warheads with minimal modifications subsequently.
Tata Advanced Systems continues to support DRDO on development of new guided variants with extended ranges of 120 km and 300 km ranges. Its modular design and TASL-DRDO software make it "future proof" allowing new rockets to be integrated seamlessly with the launcher.
About the Pinaka MLRS programme:
Tata Advanced Systems Limited has collaborated with DRDO since 1989 on the Pinaka MLRS, securing the landmark 2006 contract for second Pinaka Regiment.
This was followed by repeat order in 2016 and a 2020 contract apportioning two of six additional regiments to Tata Advanced Systems.
The equipment supplied to the initial regiments, now in service for over 15 years, has benefited from significant upgrades in subsequent production batches, enhancing commonality and performance.
