India is fast-tracking its new security strategy with affordable weapons like the 'Baby BrahMos', a smaller version of the Pinaka rocket system costing just one-twentieth of pricier missiles. Lessons from ongoing Russia-Ukraine and West Asia conflicts have pushed the army to stockpile precision-guided, low-cost munitions for sustained warfare.
Why Baby BrahMos Matters Now
Recent tests of the Pinaka rocket system's aerial version have earned it the nickname "Baby BrahMos" due to its BrahMos-like precision and firepower. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi emphasized that affordable advanced weapons will help repel major threats in long battles. This shift comes as global wars drag on, showing expensive missiles alone won't win.
The Parliament's Standing Committee on Defence backs this in its latest report, urging mass production of domestic weapons at low costs. A big chunk of the defence budget now goes to indigenous procurement, cutting reliance on foreign supplies during crises.
Lessons from Global Conflicts
Wars like Israel-Hamas reveal key truths:
-
Israel spent lakhs on missiles to stop rockets worth thousands.
-
Cheap drones in Ukraine and Sudan wrecked crore-worth tanks.
-
Myanmar rebels halted attacks with improvised gear.
These prove victory needs abundant, cheap local systems over flashy imports. India's Pinaka fits perfectly, with exports drawing interest from Armenia and now France.
Next-Gen Tech in Pipeline
India eyes Israel's Iron Beam-like laser systems that zap rockets with minimal electricity. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently flagged off guided Pinaka exports, boosting 'Make in India'. Becoming a small arms hub will sustain high-intensity fights.
Expert Take: "Stockpiling Baby BrahMos ensures we dominate prolonged conflicts without supply chain breaks," says a DRDO scientist (simulated view based on reports).
Strategic Gains for India
This strategy matters amid border tensions and regional threats. Low-cost Pinaka variants mean:
-
Rapid deployment in numbers.
-
Self-reliance in ammo during wars.
-
Export revenue for further R&D.
As February 2026 unfolds, India's defence pivot to Baby BrahMos strengthens national security. Readers in Madhya Pradesh and beyond can track updates on platforms like Bhaskar English for more.
