India to supply missiles to Armenia  PHOTO

The Ministry of Defence of India has signed a large order for the export of missiles, rockets and ammunition to Armenia.

The contract for the supply of weapons was signed by the governments of the two countries in early September, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Armenian media. 

The cost of the deal has not been disclosed, but weapons worth more than $240 million are expected to be delivered to Armenia in the coming months.

The supplies include the first-ever export of Pinaka's indigenous multi-barreled rocket launchers, which are already in service with the Indian Army. The powerful weapon was developed by the local Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and is produced by private companies in India.

The combat vehicle is located on the wheelbase of a modified Tatra-815 Colos WN (8x8) off-road chassis.

The artillery part of the system, which is located in the rear of the combat vehicle, is 2 packs of 6 tubular guides. Missiles with different warheads have a range of 37.5 to 60 km, in the development of missiles for 90 and 120 km.

The maximum speed is 80 km/h. The combat vehicle is equipped with modern fire control systems and topographic references to the terrain, which are fully automated, as well as infrared night vision devices. The time of a full salvo from the MLRS (multiple launch rocket system) is 44 seconds. With the help of a transport-loading vehicle, the combat vehicle is recharged in 15 minutes. Work is also underway to reduce the reload time to 4 minutes.

As part of the complex deal, India will also supply anti-tank missiles and a range of ammunition to Armenia. This is not the first time weapons systems have been exported to Armenia. In 2020, India delivered four Swathi radars to the country.

Designed to the specifications of the Indian Army, these radars are used to track incoming artillery shells, mortars and missiles, and to pinpoint enemy launchers and positions. Radars have been successfully used on the borders of Pakistan and China.