pinaka rocket system
Nov. 15, 2024, 2:12 a.m.
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India Successfully Tests Latest Pinaka Rocket System; France and Armenia Show Interest in Acquisition

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India today successfully completed the flight-test of its advanced guided weapon system, Pinaka, amid rising global demand. Named after Lord Shiva's bow, the Pinaka system was originally developed as a replacement for the Russian Grad BM-21 rocket launcher and was first deployed during the 1999 Kargil War, where it played a pivotal role in destroying Pakistani positions at strategic heights.

The Pinaka system, now upgraded, was evaluated on key metrics like range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire for multiple target engagements in salvo mode. Conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the tests were part of the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) validation, taking place across multiple field firing ranges. Twelve rockets from each production agency were successfully launched from two upgraded, in-service Pinaka launchers, showcasing its effectiveness.

With New Delhi's defense manufacturing push under the 'Make in India' initiative gaining momentum, the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system has piqued the interest of nations like France and Armenia. France, in particular, has shown interest in acquiring the Pinaka system to enhance its artillery division, with talks already at an advanced stage.

The Pinaka system, developed by the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) under DRDO, comprises a multi-barrel rocket launcher capable of firing a salvo of 12 rockets in just 44 seconds, covering a target area of 700 by 500 meters. The system includes a free-flight artillery rocket with a maximum range of 38 km, with different types of warheads and fuzes. The launch system also includes a replenishment-cum-loader vehicle, a replenishment vehicle, and a command post vehicle.

The current Pinaka Mk-II version, designed to meet the Indian Army's requirements, has an extended range of 60 km, with the existing launch vehicle and ground systems being modified for firing. The guided version of Pinaka, featuring advanced seekers for precision targeting, has doubled the range compared to the original version. Looking forward, the DRDO is working on a new guided Pinaka variant with ranges of 120 km, 150 km, and even 200 km, aimed at countering China’s long-range guided rocket systems.

The Pinaka system has already marked its presence globally. Armenia placed the first order for the system, which was reportedly delivered via Iran in 2023 to support its defense against Azerbaijan. Following successful recent trials, France is now in talks to test and potentially acquire the Pinaka system to boost its own artillery capabilities.

France’s interest in Pinaka is part of a broader strategy to strengthen defense and strategic ties with India, a relationship that has been bolstered by contracts for Rafale fighter jets and C-295 transport aircraft. As the second-largest defense supplier to India, France aims to deepen its cooperation with New Delhi, with Pinaka representing an advanced addition to its arsenal.

The successful testing of Pinaka underscores India’s growing capabilities in defense technology and highlights its emergence as a reliable partner in the global defense landscape. The export of advanced indigenous systems like Pinaka represents a major step toward establishing India as a key player in global arms production, providing cutting-edge technology to international partners.



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