New Delhi: India has achieved another significant milestone in strengthening its indigenous defence capabilities after the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight tested the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The trial validated the rocket’s minimum operational range of 60 kilometres while successfully completing all planned flight manoeuvres before striking its designated target with precision.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the successful test as a “major milestone” for India’s homegrown defence technology, highlighting the country’s growing expertise in designing and developing advanced weapon systems.
The latest test follows the rocket’s maiden flight in December 2025, when it successfully demonstrated its maximum range of 120 kilometres. With both trials completed successfully, the Pinaka LRGR now has a proven operational range between 60 and 120 kilometres, offering greater flexibility for battlefield deployment. During the maiden test, the Defence Minister had noted that the new system would significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces.
The guided rocket has been developed through the combined efforts of the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Armament Research and Development Establishment, with support from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory and the Research Centre Imarat. The weapon was launched from the Pinaka launcher, a platform that is already in active service with the Indian Army, allowing seamless integration into existing artillery units.
Senior DRDO officials closely supervised the trial, with Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh, who also serves as Defence Secretary and Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development, monitoring the test and coordinating with the teams involved.
The successful validation of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket reflects India’s continued focus on developing precision strike systems capable of delivering accurate long range firepower. The advancement is expected to strengthen the country’s conventional deterrence while enhancing the effectiveness of indigenous artillery systems in future operational scenarios.
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