India’s private defence manufacturing sector received another boost as Pune-based Nibe Limited demonstrated its Garudastra 120mm vehicle-mounted mortar system for the Indian Army at the Infantry School in Mhow on June 17, 2026. The live demonstration showcased the system’s rapid shoot-and-scoot capability, high rate of fire, Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact, and precision engagement using GPS- and laser-guided munitions.
More than a routine product showcase, the trial highlighted how Indian defence companies are moving towards the development of advanced, mobile and precision-oriented battlefield systems. For the Army, such technologies could prove especially relevant in high-threat border environments, where speed, accuracy and survivability are critical.
The demonstration was not a routine product showcase but a live field test of a modern battlefield system designed for close-range combat. The demonstration showcased rapid shoot-and-scoot operations, high-rate of fire, Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact, and precision engagement of guided munition using GPS and laser guidance. Every feature mattered, but one moment stole the show.
Speed That Could Save Lives on the Border
War moves fast, and so did the Garudastra.
The system took position, got ready to fire in under 30 seconds, and hit the target with two rounds in less than 15 seconds. Then it disappeared from the spot just as quickly.
- The mortar displaced from its position within 15 seconds to dodge simulated counter-battery fire.
- It relocated to a main firing position and struck the target again with equal accuracy.
- A three-round MRSI mission followed, hitting the target simultaneously from different trajectories.
The “shoot-and-scoot” drill was not just for demonstration — it reflects real combat conditions, especially near the Line of Control, where staying in one position too long can be dangerous. But speed alone does not win wars. Accuracy does, and that’s where the real story begins.
One Shot, One Hit: The Precision That Changed the Game
A key moment in the demonstration caught the attention of defence observers, as a long-range round reportedly hit a 3-metre by 3-metre target with high precision. The strike highlighted the system’s ability to engage small targets accurately from a distance.
The “Garudastra” 120mm mounted mortar is said to have a range of 7 to 10 km and can fire a 17-kg penetrating warhead capable of breaking through up to 20 cm of reinforced concrete, making it effective against bunkers and fortified positions.
Nibe Limited described the system as a step forward in indigenous defence technology, calling it a “future-ready” solution for the Indian Armed Forces.
But beyond these claims, the real question the trial raises is far bigger—and still unfolding.
The Unreported Angle
Alongside the successful Garudastra mortar demonstration, Nibe Limited has also been highlighting progress across its broader defence portfolio.
The company recently shared details of technical evaluations conducted for its Suryastra rocket launcher system on 18 and 19 May 2026. According to Nibe, the system achieved a CEP (Circular Error Probable) of 1.5 metres for its 150 km variant and 2.0 metres for its 300 km variant, demonstrating a high level of precision.
In this context, the Garudastra trial at Mhow was more than just a successful demonstration. It showed Nibe’s growing efforts to develop advanced defence systems in India and support the country’s defence modernization goals.
With both Garudastra and Suryastra highlighting strong precision capabilities, Nibe is emerging as a company to watch in India’s rapidly growing defence sector.
What Comes Next After This Successful Trial?
The demonstration is being seen as a reflection of India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Instead of depending on imported systems, Indian private companies are increasingly designing and developing advanced military technologies within the country. Nibe’s successful trial of the Garudastra mortar highlights this shift towards indigenous defence production and innovation.
If the system performs well in future evaluations, it could strengthen India’s efforts to build a stronger domestic defence industry while reducing reliance on foreign equipment. The trial also highlights the growing role of Indian-made technologies in supporting the modernisation needs of the Indian Army.
For now, Garudastra has made a strong impression. The next chapter will depend on how the Indian Army views its performance—and that decision could be worth watching.
Frequently Asked Questions
1)What is the Garudastra 120mm Mounted Mortar?
Ans. Nibe Limited developed the Garudastra, a 120mm vehicle-mounted mortar system, to provide rapid, accurate, and mobile fire support for military operations.
2) Why is the Garudastra mortar in the news?
Ans. The system recently underwent a successful demonstration for the Indian Army at the Infantry School in Mhow, showcasing its speed, precision, and advanced guided munition capabilities.
3) What are the key features of the Garudastra 120mm Mounted Mortar?
Ans. The system features rapid “shoot-and-scoot” capability, a high rate of fire, Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI), and the ability to use GPS- and laser-guided munitions.
4) What is the firing range of the Garudastra mortar?
Ans. According to the company, the Garudastra can engage targets at distances ranging from approximately 7 km to 10 km.
5) How accurate is the Garudastra 120mm Mounted Mortar?
Ans. During the demonstration, the system reportedly achieved a direct hit on a 3-metre by 3-metre target, highlighting its precision strike capability.
