In a major boost to India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Indian Army has signed a ₹293 crore contract with Pune-based defence manufacturer NIBE Ltd., in collaboration with Israeli defence major Elbit Systems, for the supply of an advanced long-range rocket launcher system named ‘Suryastra’. The procurement has been carried out under emergency powers, aimed at rapidly enhancing the Army’s operational preparedness.
Suryastra to Significantly Enhance Army’s Firepower
The Suryastra rocket launcher system offers an impressive strike range of 150 km and 300 km, substantially improving the Indian Army’s deep-strike artillery capabilities. Designed as a universal, multicalibre rocket launcher, the system can integrate multiple types of rockets and deliver high-precision surface-to-surface strikes against multiple targets simultaneously.
According to official information, Suryastra has demonstrated a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than five meters during trials, underlining its accuracy and effectiveness in battlefield conditions. This precision capability marks a significant advancement in India’s long-range artillery systems.
NIBE Confirms Deal with Stock Exchanges
NIBE Ltd. officially confirmed the development in a disclosure to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) on Friday. The contract includes the manufacturing and supply of ground equipment, accessories, engineering support packages (ESP), and ammunition for the rocket launcher system.
The company stated that Suryastra is India’s first Made-in-India universal rocket launcher, capable of delivering precision strikes with extended operational reach. The system is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the Army’s deterrence and rapid-response capabilities.
Indigenous Production with Israeli Collaboration
In July 2025, NIBE Ltd. had signed a Technology Collaboration Agreement (TCA) with Elbit Systems to enable domestic production of the advanced rocket launcher. This partnership allows the transfer of cutting-edge technology while ensuring manufacturing takes place within India, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
Notably, this is the first time a high-precision rocket system with a strike range of up to 300 km is being manufactured domestically, marking a milestone in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Emergency Procurement Framework
The acquisition has been approved under provisions of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), which permit emergency procurement of defence equipment worth up to ₹300 crore without additional clearances until January 15. This framework allows the armed forces to quickly induct critical weapon systems to address urgent operational requirements.
Strengthening Battlefield Readiness
Defence experts believe the induction of Suryastra will significantly enhance the Indian Army’s long-range strike capability, battlefield flexibility, and rapid deployment options. The deal also reinforces India’s push towards self-reliance in defence production while leveraging strategic international partnerships for advanced technologies.
