New Delhi: India on Monday successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket with a strike capability of up to 120 kilometres, marking a major milestone in strengthening the country’s indigenous defence systems. The test was carried out at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, and met all mission objectives.
The rocket was tested at its maximum range of 120 kilometres and demonstrated all planned in flight manoeuvres. It accurately struck the designated target, validating the system’s guidance, navigation, and control mechanisms. Range tracking instruments monitored the rocket throughout its flight path, confirming consistent performance and precision.
The successful trial coincided with the Defence Acquisition Council clearing the project for induction into the Indian Army earlier in the day. The rocket was launched from an existing Pinaka launcher, highlighting the platform’s flexibility and its ability to deploy multiple variants with different ranges from the same system. This compatibility is expected to simplify logistics and enhance operational readiness.
The Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket has been developed by multiple defence research laboratories working together to deliver a high accuracy, long range artillery solution. The system is designed to provide rapid response capabilities while maintaining precision in modern battlefield conditions.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the teams involved in the project, describing the achievement as a game changer for the Armed Forces. He said the successful development of long range guided rockets would significantly enhance India’s military strength. Senior defence research officials also witnessed the trial and praised the coordinated efforts that led to the successful outcome.
The Pinaka Multiple Launcher Rocket System has emerged as one of India’s most successful indigenous weapons platforms. Known for its speed, accuracy, and versatility, it has earned strong backing from the Indian Army. Military leadership has indicated that longer range versions of Pinaka could reduce the need for alternate artillery systems.
Beyond domestic use, the Pinaka system has also made progress in the global defence market. It has already been exported to Armenia, while several European nations have shown interest, underlining India’s growing footprint in defence exports and advanced weapons manufacturing.
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