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NEIndia has developed a low-cost yet powerful rocket system often called the “Baby BrahMos.” Built for around ₹2.3 crore per unit, this system is said to be nearly ten times cheaper than a similar American system that costs close to ₹20 crore. Reports suggest that France is in talks with India to buy this system, especially at a time when it is preparing a major fighter jet deal.
The system being discussed is the air-launched version of the Pinaka Rocket System, developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation. Originally designed for the Indian Army, it has now been modified so it can be launched from fighter jets. Its size has been reduced to fit aircraft easily, and improvements in propulsion make it faster and more effective. The rocket can glide at high speed and even change its path mid-air to hit its target accurately.
Many compare it with the BrahMos missile, one of the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missiles. While BrahMos is used for large, high-value targets like warships and command centers, Pinaka is built for precise strikes on smaller targets such as enemy vehicles, airfields, or troop positions. BrahMos travels at around Mach 3 speed using a ramjet engine, whereas Pinaka uses solid fuel and follows a guided trajectory to strike quickly.
The major difference is cost and purpose. A single BrahMos missile can cost between ₹35–40 crore, while Pinaka costs just ₹2.3 crore per unit. France is reportedly considering Pinaka as a replacement for its older rocket systems that will retire in the coming years. With its lower price and strong performance, the Indian-made system is becoming an attractive option in global defense markets.
Source/Credit: News18 Hindi
Published on: February 24, 2026
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