The Republic Day parade of 2025 featured an impressive display of India’s advanced missile systems. This event brought into light the Indian military’s evolving long-range tactical strike capabilities. The showcase was influenced by lessons learned from the ongoing war in Ukraine. Key missile systems included the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the upgraded Pinaka Multi-Rocket Launch System (MRLS).
Key Missile Systems Presented
The parade featured several important missile systems. The BrahMos missile remains a mainstay of India’s strike capability. The upgraded Pinaka MRLS has a range of 75 km, demonstrating India’s commitment to enhancing its artillery. The Pralay quasi-ballistic missile system was also brought into light, marking India’s first conventionally designated ballistic missile.
Technological Advancements
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). This system is designed to improve artillery effectiveness on the battlefield. The new Battlefield Surveillance System, named Sanjay, is set for induction into operational brigades, divisions, and corps of the Army.
Pinaka Multi-Rocket Launch System
The Pinaka MLRS is one of the most advanced rocket systems globally. It can deliver a salvo of 72 rockets in just 44 seconds. Currently, the Army operates four Pinaka regiments with plans to expand this number. Future enhancements aim to increase the range of Pinaka rockets .
Pralay Quasi-Ballistic Missile
The Pralay missile features a twin launcher system. It is designed for quick deployment and high lethality. Its development trials are complete, and it is expected to play important role in India’s conventional strike capabilities. The missile can target adversaries effectively before a direct confrontation.
Specialised Ammunition and Upgrades
The introduction of specialised ammunition for the Pinaka system enhances its lethality. High-Explosive Pre-Fragmented rockets will increase the range by 15-20%. The Area Denial Munition (ADM) system will provide anti-tank and anti-personnel capabilities. Contracts for these enhancements are anticipated soon.
Significance of BrahMos and Grad Systems
The BrahMos missile system continues to be asset for India. It has demonstrated its effectiveness in various combat scenarios. The Grad rocket system also proved its worth during the Kargil War, showcasing rapid-fire capabilities. Recent upgrades have improved its mobility and payload capacity.
Future Developments
The Nirbhay sub-sonic cruise missile is in advanced development stages. It is expected to be showcased in future parades. This missile represents India’s long-range strike capabilities. The focus on indigenous development reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the evolution of India’s missile technology in the context of national security.
- Critically examine the impact of the Kargil War on India’s military strategy and weaponry.
- Explain the significance of indigenous defence production in enhancing national security.
- With suitable examples, discuss the role of advanced missile systems in modern warfare.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the evolution of India’s missile technology in the context of national security.
- India’s missile program began in the 1980s, initially focusing on short-range capabilities.
- Development of the Agni and Prithvi series marked advancements in range and precision.
- Introduction of BrahMos showcased India’s capability to produce supersonic cruise missiles in collaboration with Russia.
- Recent systems like Pralay and upgraded Pinaka reflect a shift towards tactical strike options and enhanced lethality.
- Ongoing advancements aim to address regional threats and ensure strategic deterrence in a volatile security environment.
2. Critically examine the impact of the Kargil War on India’s military strategy and weaponry.
- Kargil War brought into light the need for improved artillery and rapid response capabilities.
- Utilization of the Grad rocket system proved effective in neutralizing enemy positions under challenging conditions.
- Post-war, India focused on modernizing its artillery, including the development of the Pinaka MLRS.
- The conflict led to a strategic shift towards enhancing surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
- Lessons from Kargil emphasized the importance of integrated military operations and jointness among armed forces.
3. Explain the significance of indigenous defence production in enhancing national security.
- Indigenous production reduces dependency on foreign arms suppliers, enhancing strategic autonomy.
- It encourages technological advancements and innovation within the domestic defence industry.
- Programs like ATAGS and Sanjay demonstrate India’s commitment to self-reliance in military capabilities.
- Indigenous production creates jobs and stimulates economic growth within the country.
- Strengthening local manufacturing ensures quicker procurement and deployment of critical military assets.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of advanced missile systems in modern warfare.
- Advanced missile systems enable precise targeting, reducing collateral damage and increasing operational efficiency.
- The BrahMos cruise missile exemplifies a versatile strike capability, capable of engaging land and naval targets.
- Systems like Pralay allow for preemptive strikes, disrupting enemy capabilities before conflict escalation.
- Pinaka MLRS enhances artillery support with rapid-fire capabilities, crucial in high-intensity conflicts.
- Integration of missile systems with surveillance technologies improves situational awareness and decision-making in modern combat.
