India publicly showcased its new Suryastra multiple launch rocket system during rehearsals for the Army Day parade in Jaipur, marking the first public appearance of the indigenous long-range rocket artillery platform.
The system was displayed on a wheeled launcher carrying two 370mm Predator Hawk missiles and four 306mm extended-range rockets, highlighting its ability to fire different calibres from a single platform.
Suryastra is India’s first indigenous universal multi-calibre rocket launcher and is based on technology derived from the Israeli PULS rocket system, developed through cooperation with Elbit Systems. The Indian variant is intended to provide the Army with a flexible, long-range precision strike capability across multiple mission profiles.
The launcher shown in Jaipur was configured with 370mm Predator Hawk missiles, which have a stated range of up to 300 kilometers, alongside 306mm guided rockets comparable to the EXTRA family, with ranges of up to 150 kilometers. This configuration demonstrates the system’s ability to deliver both deep-strike and medium-range precision fires using the same launch vehicle.
Unlike traditional multiple launch rocket systems that are limited to a single rocket type, Suryastra is designed as a universal launcher. It can integrate multiple rocket and missile types without requiring changes to the core platform, allowing rapid adaptation to different operational requirements.
The public display follows a recently signed contract between the Indian Army and NIBE Limited. Under the agreement, valued at ₹293 crore (about $69 million), NIBE will supply the Suryastra rocket launcher system in collaboration with Israeli partners. The contract represents a step toward expanding India’s domestic production of long-range artillery systems.
Indian defense officials have described Suryastra as a precision surface-to-surface strike system designed to engage high-value targets at extended ranges. The system is expected to support roles including counter-force missions, deep fires against logistics hubs, and precision strikes against fortified positions.
The Indian Army has been modernizing its rocket artillery units to improve range, accuracy, and survivability. Suryastra complements existing systems such as the Pinaka rocket launcher while extending engagement ranges well beyond earlier platforms.
