The Indian Navy has initiated efforts to develop indigenous 80-mm aero rockets for its MiG-29K fighter aircraft, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign-origin munitions and strengthen defence self-reliance.

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• The Indian Navy has invited domestic companies to design and manufacture indigenous 80-mm aero rockets for MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB fighter aircraft.
• The initiative is part of the broader push towards defence indigenisation and reducing reliance on foreign military equipment and ammunition.
• Currently, the Navy’s inventory of these rockets has been sourced entirely from foreign original equipment manufacturers.
• The 80-mm aero rocket is a dual-purpose weapon capable of engaging both armoured targets and unarmoured military installations.
• MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB aircraft serve as the primary carrier-based fighter platforms aboard INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.
• The Navy has mandated that all sub-assemblies and components of the proposed rocket system be developed indigenously.
• Following successful development and testing, the Navy plans to procure 273 live rockets and approximately 2,400 practice rounds.
• The weapon system is expected to operate effectively in extreme temperatures ranging from minus 60 degrees Celsius to plus 60 degrees Celsius.