NIBE Limited, a prominent Indian defense manufacturer, has signed a strategic technology collaboration agreement with Israel’s Elbit Systems Land Limited. The partnership will facilitate the indigenous production of the Universal Rocket Launcher (SURYA), a highly sophisticated and autonomous rocket system with a strike range of up to 300 kilometers.
This marks the first time that such an advanced multi-role rocket launcher will be manufactured on Indian soil. Designed for precision and high mobility, SURYA is expected to elevate India’s capabilities in modern battlefield scenarios, offering powerful support to ground forces and complementing aerial operations. This initiative is in line with the Indian Government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” missions to boost self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The SURYA Rocket Launcher System stands out as a versatile and powerful addition to modern artillery, offering multi-mission capability through its advanced modular design. Its Launch Pod Container is engineered to accommodate a broad range of both guided and unguided rockets, making it compatible with multiple missile types and Original Equipment Manufacturers. This modularity enhances its adaptability across diverse battlefield scenarios and ensures seamless integration with various payload configurations.
One of the most notable features of the SURYA system is its autonomous functionality. It comes equipped with an integrated navigation system and Launcher Mission Computer, allowing it to conduct fire missions independently. This eliminates the need for external guidance or support systems and enables the launcher to be fully operational in under a minute, making it highly effective in high-mobility, time-sensitive combat environments.
Precision and speed are further enhanced by SURYA’s smart targeting and firing capabilities. The system automatically calculates and sets the correct azimuth and elevation angles, significantly reducing human intervention. This level of automation translates into quicker targeting and improved accuracy, especially over extended ranges, making it a critical asset in modern warfare where timing and precision are crucial.
From a logistical perspective, SURYA offers notable operational efficiency. It is designed with dual launch pod containers, which not only increase its rocket-carrying capacity but also reduce the frequency and duration of reloading. This boosts the sustained firepower of artillery units while simplifying supply chain requirements and overall operational planning in the field.
In summary, the SURYA Rocket Launcher System represents a significant leap forward in artillery technology. Its blend of modularity, autonomy, precision, and efficiency positions it as a force multiplier on the battlefield, capable of adapting to a wide range of missions while supporting rapid deployment and high-impact engagement. The collaboration positions NIBE Limited as a serious global contender in the defense sector. It also opens doors for exports and new international partnerships, leveraging Elbit Systems’ globally respected technology and NIBE’s local production strength.
This development represents a turning point in India’s defense manufacturing capabilities, enhancing strategic autonomy and creating opportunities for international cooperation. By producing SURYA in India, NIBE aims to serve both domestic defense forces and international customers with a solution that rivals some of the best systems available globally.
Commenting on the agreement, executives from both companies expressed confidence in the long-term potential of this alliance. They highlighted the mutual goal of enabling rapid innovation, improving battlefield readiness, and expanding market reach.
NIBE Limited is an Indian defense technology firm engaged in the design, manufacture, and integration of advanced systems for land-based military applications. The company focuses on innovation, indigenization, and international collaboration to deliver cutting-edge solutions to the Indian Armed Forces and allied nations.
A division of Israel’s Elbit Systems Ltd, Elbit Systems Land is a global leader in armored and artillery platforms, unmanned ground systems, and modernization of combat vehicles. Its battlefield-proven technologies are trusted by armed forces worldwide for their reliability, performance, and mission adaptability.
