The Indian Navy has invited domestic defense firms to develop and manufacture indigenous 80mm [1] rockets for its MiG-29K fighter fleet.
This move is intended to improve the air-to-ground strike capabilities of the naval aircraft while reducing reliance on foreign military imports. By shifting production to local firms, the Navy aims to secure its supply chain for critical munitions.
The initiative aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat defense strategy, which seeks to strengthen India's self-reliance in military technology [1]. Under this program, the government encourages the development of high-tech weaponry within national borders to ensure strategic autonomy during conflicts.
The procurement focuses specifically on rockets with a calibre of 80mm [1]. These munitions are designed to be integrated into the MiG-29K fleet to provide more flexible options for striking ground targets from the air.
While some reports suggest the Navy will now use these rockets, other records indicate the service is currently in the process of inviting firms to build them [1]. This indicates the weapons are not yet operational and are in the development or procurement phase.
The shift toward indigenous production is part of a broader trend within the Indian defense sector to modernize existing platforms with locally sourced hardware. The MiG-29K serves as a primary carrier-based fighter for the Navy, and upgrading its strike package is a priority for maintaining maritime security.
“The Indian Navy has invited domestic defense firms to develop and manufacture indigenous 80mm rockets.”
This procurement effort reflects India's strategic transition from a primary importer of defense equipment to a domestic manufacturer. By focusing on the MiG-29K's air-to-ground capabilities, the Indian Navy is attempting to mitigate the risk of foreign sanctions or supply disruptions that could compromise its operational readiness in the Indian Ocean region.
