India Signs Elbit-Based Rocket Deal to Modernize Artillery
India has signed a multi-million-dollar defense deal with Israel-linked firm Elbit Systems to accelerate modernization of its artillery forces. The Indian Army has approved an emergency procurement contract valued at about ₹293 crore, roughly $32 to $33 million, for the Suryastra long-range rocket system based on Elbit Systems PULS technology.
According to OdishaTV, the contract was awarded to Pune-based NIBE, which will manufacture the system in India in cooperation with Elbit Systems. The deal reflects urgent operational requirements and allows the Army to bypass lengthy procurement timelines under emergency powers.
Universal Rocket Launcher Capability
India Defense News reports that Suryastra is defined as a universal rocket launcher. The system can fire multiple rocket calibers from a single platform, allowing both area saturation fire and precision deep strikes. It is designed to engage targets at ranges of up to 150 kilometers and 300 kilometers, depending on the munition used.
The launcher is based on Elbit Systems PULS architecture and supports 122 mm, 160 mm, and 306 mm rockets, as well as tactical missiles from the Predator Hawk family. The contract also covers ground equipment, accessories, electronic sequence programming units, and tailored ammunition.
Performance and Trial Results
Business Standard confirms the contract value at ₹292.69 to ₹293 crore, including taxes and levies. During evaluation trials, OdishaTV reports the Suryastra system demonstrated a circular error probable of less than five meters, a level of accuracy considered high for rocket artillery.
Compared to indigenous systems such as Pinaka, the Elbit-based platform offers greater range flexibility and multi-caliber integration, expanding the Indian Army’s precision strike options.
Industrial and Strategic Context
The groundwork for the deal was laid in July 2025, when NIBE signed a technology cooperation agreement with Elbit Systems Land. Angel One and BharatShakti report that the agreement covers licensing, knowledge transfer, and local production, aligning with India’s Make in India policy.
BharatShakti notes that Suryastra is India’s first universal rocket launcher platform and can be mounted on 4×4, 6×6, or 8×8 vehicle chassis. The program strengthens India’s domestic defense manufacturing base while integrating proven Israeli rocket technology.
