Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) has exported the first batch of 1,000 Guided Pinaka rockets to Armenia, marking a significant step forward for India's growing defence export sector and its indigenous weapons manufacturing capabilities.

The shipment was formally flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during his visit to SDAL's facility in Nagpur in January 2026. The export forms part of a wider defence agreement under which Armenia is acquiring four Pinaka rocket system batteries, associated ammunition and support equipment valued at approximately ₹2,000 crore.

The Guided Pinaka is an advanced version of the indigenous Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The guided variant offers significantly improved accuracy and can strike targets at ranges exceeding 70 kilometres.

Armenia became the first international customer for the Pinaka system when it signed the agreement in 2022. Deliveries of earlier unguided Pinaka systems began in 2023 and were completed by late 2024, with the latest shipment representing a major upgrade in capability.

The rockets are being manufactured by SDAL, part of the Solar Group, at its production facility in Nagpur. The project highlights the increasing role of India's private sector in defence manufacturing and ammunition production, supporting the country's broader objective of becoming a leading global defence exporter.

The export is viewed as a major achievement because it demonstrates India's ability to supply complete artillery solutions rather than individual weapons or limited ammunition packages. Long-term ammunition support is considered a key advantage for overseas customers operating the Pinaka system.

The deal also reflects the deepening strategic and defence relationship between India and Armenia. In recent years, Armenia has emerged as one of the largest recipients of Indian-made military equipment, with cooperation expanding across multiple defence platforms.

Rajnath Singh stated that the export of Pinaka rockets showcases the capabilities of India's defence industry and strengthens the country's export potential. He emphasised that India is no longer only an importer of military equipment but is increasingly establishing itself as a defence exporter.

The Guided Pinaka export is widely regarded as a landmark achievement for India's indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem, reinforcing confidence in locally developed weapon systems and opening the door for future international orders.

Agencies