Quick Summary: Apollo Strategic Technologies has signed an MoU with US-based Dynamic Engineering to co-develop and produce rocket motors for BM-21 Grad rockets. The deal supports Make in India, with trials planned soon and full-scale production targeted by mid-2026.
Full Article: Apollo Strategic Technologies Private Limited (ASTPL), a step-down subsidiary of Apollo Micro Systems Limited and a subsidiary of Apollo Defence Industries Private Limited (ADIPL), has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with US-based Dynamic Engineering and Design Incorporation. The agreement, signed at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition in London on September 10, 2025, focuses on technology transfer, co-development, and potential licensed production of rocket motors for BM-21 Grad Extended Range (ER) and Non-ER Rockets.
The collaboration is positioned as a key step towards indigenising propulsion technologies for multi-barrel rocket systems under India’s “Make in India” initiative. Apollo has already developed the 122mm rocket warhead in-house and plans to begin trials soon, with full-scale production targeted for mid-2026.
This partnership is expected to integrate indigenous warheads with domestically produced rocket motors, marking a significant advancement in India’s private defence manufacturing sector. The BM-21 Grad rocket system, widely deployed in global defence markets, remains in high demand for its rapid-fire capability and range of up to 40 km.
By establishing domestic production of rocket motors, the initiative aims to reduce import dependency, lower lifecycle costs, enhance strategic autonomy, and enable large-scale manufacturing. It also contributes to the Government of India’s goal of strengthening self-reliance in defence production while positioning Apollo Group as one of the first private Indian companies to deliver a fully in-house developed rocket system of this calibre.