Nibe Limited tests advanced Garudastra 120mm mortar system in Madhya Pradesh

Guided Mobile 120mm Mortar System Tested, Offers Precision and Mobility

Nibe Limited has successfully demonstrated its Garudastra long-range 120mm vehicle-mounted mortar system at the Infantry School in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. The system showcased advanced capabilities, including rapid shoot-and-scoot operations, Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI), high rates of fire, and precision engagement using GPS and laser-guided munitions.

Mortars, known for their lightweight and mobility, are critical for supporting infantry operations in dynamic battlefield conditions. Unlike artillery guns, which offer greater range and firepower, mortars are quicker to deploy and excel in indirect fire roles.

Developed in collaboration with a foreign Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), the Garudastra is designed to engage targets at ranges of 7-10 kilometers. It is equipped with a 17kg penetrating warhead capable of defeating 20 cm of reinforced concrete, making it effective against bunkers and fortified positions. As a 120mm mortar, it strikes a balance between firepower, range, and mobility, making it a preferred choice over smaller calibers like 81mm and 82mm mortars.

The system employs soft-recoil partnership technology, enabling it to be mounted on lightweight 4x4 tactical vehicles. Its integration with Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) systems and Battle Management Systems (BMS) allows it to receive real-time targeting information from drones, radars, and command networks. This capability enhances its responsiveness against mobile targets by enabling real-time course corrections.

Garudastra can deliver a high rate of fire, with burst firing at 12-16 rounds per minute and sustained firing at 3-4 rounds per minute. This capability allows it to rapidly neutralize moving targets and maintain battlefield dominance during critical combat phases. Its shoot-and-scoot functionality further enhances its survivability by allowing it to fire and relocate quickly, avoiding detection and retaliation from enemy counter-battery radars.

The system's ability to use GPS and laser-guided munitions gives it a significant edge over conventional mortars, which rely solely on ballistic trajectories and area bombardment. GPS guidance ensures precision by using satellite navigation to hit pre-designated targets, while laser-guided munitions can home in on targets illuminated by ground troops, drones, or forward observers. This precision reduces ammunition consumption and improves first-round hit probability.

Aligned with the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Garudastra represents a step toward strengthening India's indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities while meeting the operational needs of the armed forces.