Quick Summary: NIBE Limited has entered into a technology collaboration agreement with Elbit Systems of Israel to manufacture the SURYA Universal Rocket Launcher in India. The system, with a range of up to 300 km, will be produced for both domestic and export markets. The agreement supports local defense manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
Full Article: NIBE Limited, an Indian defense equipment manufacturer, has signed a technology collaboration agreement with Israel-based Elbit Systems to facilitate the production of the Universal Rocket Launcher (SURYA) in India.
Under the agreement, NIBE will manufacture and supply the SURYA system, designed to engage targets up to 300 kilometers away. This marks the first instance of this specific system being locally produced in India.
Technical Overview: SURYA Universal Rocket Launcher
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Multi-Rocket Compatibility:
The SURYA is designed to launch various accurate and free-flight rockets. Its modular Launch Pod Container (LPC) supports multiple rocket and missile types from different manufacturers. -
Autonomous Operation:
The launcher includes an onboard navigation system and Launcher Mission Computer (LMC), enabling autonomous firing capabilities and rapid deployment in under a minute. -
Targeting and Firing Automation:
It automatically sets the required azimuth and elevation angles based on mission data, enabling faster response and targeting. -
Operational Readiness:
Dual LPCs increase payload capacity and reduce reload frequency, improving operational efficiency for artillery units.
Implications for India’s Defense Manufacturing
The agreement aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance domestic defense production under the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. The SURYA system will be manufactured in India and is intended for both domestic deployment and potential international sales.
This collaboration adds to the list of foreign technology transfers to India’s private defense sector and supports the expansion of indigenous manufacturing capabilities.