At the Eurosatory 2024 Defence Show in Paris, Made in India military technologies, including the Netra airborne early warning and control aircraft and the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher systems, have garnered attention from European and Southeast Asian nations interested in acquiring these advanced systems.
India’s participation at Eurosatory 2024 Defence Show in Paris has showcased its cutting-edge indigenous military technologies, drawing significant interest from European and Southeast Asian countries. Among the highlights are the Netra airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft and the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher systems, both developed under India’s robust defense research and manufacturing ecosystem.
Netra AEW&C Aircraft
The Netra AEW&C aircraft, developed by the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), has already made significant strides in enhancing India’s airborne surveillance capabilities. With several aircraft currently in operation with the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Netra provides comprehensive coverage of activities along India’s western and northern borders. At Eurosatory 2024, several European and Southeast Asian nations have expressed keen interest in acquiring this sophisticated airborne system.
Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher Systems
The Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system, another star attraction at the India pavilion, has also caught the eye of potential buyers from Europe. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by both private and public sector firms in India, the Pinaka system offers rapid firepower delivery capabilities. Its automated gun-aiming and positioning systems make it a formidable force against critical targets within short timeframes.
Interest from European and Southeast Asian Countries
According to a defence official familiar with the matter, “Some of the European and Southeast Asian countries have shown interest in the Netra AEW&C aircraft and the Pinaka rocket launcher systems.” Discussions are underway to further these prospects and potentially finalize deals with interested parties.
Indian Defence Exports and Achievements
India’s efforts to promote defence exports have seen remarkable success, with exports touching a record Rs 21,083 crore (about USD 2.63 Billion) in FY 2023-24. This marks a substantial growth of 32.5% over the previous fiscal year, highlighting India’s emergence as a significant player in the global defence market.
Pinaka System Specifications
The Pinaka system is designed to replace the outdated Grad BM-21 rocket system, showcasing India’s commitment to modernizing its artillery capabilities. Each regiment comprises three batteries of six launchers, equipped with advanced automated systems for precise targeting and rapid response in sensitive border areas.
Future Prospects and Export Success
Indian defence companies, including Larsen & Toubro, Tata Defence, and Economic Explosives Limited, have been instrumental in manufacturing and exporting these indigenous systems. Armenia, amidst its ongoing tensions with Azerbaijan, has already placed orders for multiple systems, underscoring the effectiveness and reliability of Indian defence products on the global stage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, India’s showcasing of the Netra AEW&C aircraft and the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher systems at Eurosatory 2024 has generated significant interest from European and Southeast Asian countries. These indigenous systems represent a leap forward in India’s defence capabilities and underscore the country’s growing role as a reliable supplier of advanced defence technologies in the international market.
