The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has taken another step towards strengthening India’s long-range precision strike capabilities, with its Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad issuing a tender for the fabrication of five sets of 370 mm Extended Long Range Guided Rocket (ELRGR) motor systems.
According to the tender details, the work involves specialised manufacturing and testing activities, including flow forming, precision machining, welding of 11-10 PH steel and proof-pressure testing. The completed rocket motor systems are required to be delivered to RCI Hyderabad within six months.
The 370 mm ELRGR is being developed as a larger-calibre guided rocket system that could significantly extend the reach of India’s precision rocket artillery. While the tender does not officially confirm the final operational range, the system has been associated with a potential range in the 150–200 kilometre class.
The programme is particularly significant in the context of India’s continuing efforts to expand the capabilities of its indigenous rocket artillery systems. The Pinaka family has evolved considerably over the years, moving from conventional unguided rockets towards guided and longer-range variants. A 370 mm system would represent a further step towards providing the Indian Army with greater stand-off strike capability.
The rocket motor is a critical component of such a system, as its design and manufacturing directly influence propulsion performance, structural strength and overall reliability. The requirement for specialised fabrication, machining and proof-pressure testing highlights the demanding engineering standards involved in producing the new motor system.
The tender also reflects the increasing involvement of India’s domestic defence manufacturing sector in advanced propulsion and weapon-system programmes. By expanding industrial capabilities for specialised rocket components, the programme could contribute to the broader objective of reducing dependence on foreign technology and strengthening indigenous defence production.
The immediate requirement for five motor systems is expected to support the ongoing development and testing phase of the ELRGR programme. Further trials will be important in determining the system’s final performance, range, accuracy and integration with future rocket artillery platforms.
The development of the 370 mm ELRGR underscores DRDO’s continuing focus on longer-range precision firepower for the Indian military. If successfully developed and subsequently inducted, the system could add a new layer to India’s rocket artillery capabilities and provide the Indian Army with an indigenous long-range precision strike option.
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