In a significant boost to its defence capabilities and export potential, India successfully completed the flight-test of its advanced guided Pinaka rocket system, marking a milestone for the ‘Make in India’ defence manufacturing initiative. With a surge in global interest, including recent expressions from France, the Pinaka system has solidified its position as a top-tier artillery solution on par with the US HIMARS.
During the tests, conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) across multiple phases, the system’s range, accuracy, consistency, and multi-target engagement capabilities were rigorously evaluated.
Validation Trials of #GuidedPinaka Weapon System as part of PSQR has been successfully completed and parameters viz., ranging, accuracy, consistency and rate of fire for multiple target engagement in a salvo mode have been assessed by extensive testing of rockets. pic.twitter.com/Rb2Zy1PgRZ
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) November 14, 2024
According to a statement from the Defence Ministry, “The flight-tests have been conducted in three phases at different field firing ranges, with twelve rockets from each production agency being launched from two in-service Pinaka launchers.”
Global Interest in the Pinaka System
France, India’s second-largest defence partner, has shown keen interest in acquiring the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) to enhance its artillery arsenal, marking a new chapter in Indo-French defence cooperation. France is expected to conduct its own tests of the Pinaka system in the coming weeks, reflecting the advanced stage of negotiations between the two nations.
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The Pinaka system, first deployed during the 1999 Kargil War, has already proven its value on the battlefield. Initially developed as a replacement for the Russian Grad BM-21, the Pinaka was instrumental in helping the Indian Army neutralize enemy positions in high-altitude warfare.
Recently, Armenia became the system’s first international buyer, placing an order to strengthen its defences amid regional tensions with Azerbaijan.
Advanced Capabilities of the Pinaka System
The Pinaka rocket system, named after Lord Shiva’s bow, boasts features that make it one of the most advanced rocket systems available today. Developed by DRDO’s Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), the Pinaka system consists of a free-flight artillery rocket with a maximum range of 38 km, which can be extended to 60 km in its Mk-II variant.
The current guided version now offers precision strike capabilities, extending the range close to double its initial specification.
A complete Pinaka battery includes a multi-tube launcher vehicle, a loader vehicle, and a command post vehicle, capable of firing 72 rockets in a matter of seconds. Each launcher, equipped with two pods holding six rockets each, can discharge all rockets in a 44-second salvo, covering a target area of 700 x 500 meters.
The guided version now employs seekers for precision, and the DRDO is advancing the Pinaka’s capabilities with variants planned to exceed ranges of 120, 150, and 200 km, aimed at countering China’s long-range artillery on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Strategic Boost for India’s Defence Exports
The Pinaka’s growing appeal among global defence buyers underscores India’s expanding role as an exporter of advanced defence systems. France’s consideration of the Pinaka system reflects the countries’ deepening strategic partnership, recently underscored by major agreements like the C-295 transport aircraft deal and the Rafale jet procurement.
As global demand for advanced artillery solutions rises, India’s indigenous Pinaka system is well-positioned to attract new defence partners, supporting the nation’s broader goals of self-reliance and defence innovation.
