India is moving to establish a dedicated rocket-cum-missile force amid growing security challenges from China and Pakistan, reflecting the evolving nature of modern warfare where long-range, precision strikes have become central. The move comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, which highlighted the effectiveness of missile strikes deep inside Pakistan, and follows global trends underscored by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Speaking on Army Day, General Upendra Dwivedi emphasized the need for a specialised unit that combines long-range rockets and missiles under a single command. “We are looking towards a rocket-missile force because Pakistan has established a rocket force, and China has also created such a force. It is the need of the hour,” he said. Currently, India’s missile and rocket capabilities are spread across the Corps of Army Air Defence and artillery regiments, but a unified command would enhance operational efficiency.
Modern rockets and missiles are increasingly interdependent in warfare. While rockets are unguided, missiles carry internal guidance systems designed for precision strikes. India already possesses a diverse missile arsenal, including Agni, BrahMos, Prithvi, Pralay, and the recently tested Pinaka long-range guided rocket, with ranges up to 120 km. Contracts for missiles with ranges between 300–450 km have also been secured.
Both China and Pakistan maintain dedicated rocket-cum-missile forces. China’s People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF) commands over 1,250 ballistic and cruise missiles and more than 600 nuclear warheads, with numbers expected to rise to around 1,000 by 2030. Pakistan, after setbacks during Operation Sindoor, established its Army Rocket Force Command (ARFC), modelled on China’s PLARF, to strengthen its long-range strike capability. While Pakistan’s unit could pose challenges in a short, intense conflict, India retains an edge with over 180 high-quality warheads.
Experts suggest India can draw lessons from Iran, whose Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force (IRGCASF) operates a highly capable missile and drone arsenal independently from its regular air force. Established in 2009, the IRGCASF manages ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles and has demonstrated its effectiveness in regional conflicts, including last year’s skirmish with Israel. Iran’s rocket force benefits from extensive underground storage and launch networks, making its missiles difficult to detect and a potent deterrent in the region.
The Indian Army chief’s call for a rocket-cum-missile force reflects the shifting dynamics of warfare, emphasizing precision, range, and rapid deployment to counter twin threats along its borders. By studying global examples like Iran, India aims to enhance its deterrence capability and operational readiness in the age of non-contact, high-tech warfare.
