The Pinaka is an advanced multi-barrel rocket launcher system highly versatile in its design and development for upgrading the Indian Army’s artillery role. It has been designed and manufactured by the manufactured by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and embodies precision, mobility, and destructive capability.
Recently, the DRDO has concluded its series of flight trials over the Guided Pinaka Weapon System during Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. It has been upgraded innumerable times to remain current with the latest warfare technology. It offers a strategic advantage to the Indian Army in offensive and defensive operations by hurling a rapid barrage of rockets.
What is the Pinaka System?
Pinaka is an Indian multi-barrelled rocket launcher developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to provide artillery support by launching a rapid barrage of rockets over a large area to make offensive and defensive operations highly effective. As it was initially developed with a range of 37.5 km, the Pinaka system has been greatly upgraded. Hence, the newer system versions can range up to 75 kilometres. It will be able to launch 12 rockets in merely 44 seconds that will spread across 700 x 500 metres.
Pinaka was offered multiple warhead variants and was developed for the destruction of enemy ground objects. These include bunkers, artillery gun positions, and close concentrations of troops. All-terrain vehicle mounting has been guaranteed to move on all kinds of terrain. Thorough testing with successful trials and high demand in the international market have catapulted Pinaka as a natural part of the artillery strength for the Indian Army.
Things You Must Know About Pinaka System
Key Features of Pinaka System
Pinaka is an advanced weapon developed to fulfil the extreme requirements of contemporary artillery operations. Key features are as follows:
- Multi-Barrel Launch Capability: Pinaka can release 12 rockets that can cover an area of about 700m x 500m in just 44 seconds.
- Range: Initially, the system was designed to cover 37.5 kilometres. Over time, this system successfully achieved increased ranges:
- Pinaka Mk-I: Variant with a 38 km range and the use of multiple warheads
- Pinaka Mk-II: Improved type for 60 km.
- Extended Range Pinaka: The latest version has a 75 km reach and a strike on the target.
Another crucial feature of the Pinaka system is mobility. It can be easily moved to any location as it is installed on all-terrain vehicles, guaranteeing operational efficacy even in challenging terrain such as desert or mountainous territories. Its rapid deployment capabilities and ease of operation make it essential for the Indian Army.
Recent Testing and Verification
The DRDO tested and verified the Pinaka system in various environments to ensure performance and reliability.
- 2020 Trails: The variant of Pinaka rockets was tested at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha. It has significantly improved range and accuracy.
- 2021 Trails: The Extended Range Pinaka tests were completed at ITR when 25 rockets were launched from different ranges up to 45 km.
- 2022 Tests at Pokhran: The Indian Army and DRDO tested the Pinaka Mk-I (Enhanced) Rocket System and the Pinaka Area Denial Munition (ADM) system. Remarkable accuracy and consistency were observed in assessing the weapon systems’ performance.
Apart from reiterating the system’s capabilities, the tests ensured its readiness for induction into the Indian Armed Forces. The PSQR Validation Trials undertaken recently evaluated the Guided Pinaka Weapon System entirely in terms of range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire.
Domestic Development and Co-Operation
One instance of Indian independence in the military manufacturing industry is Pinaka. This indigenous development increased domestic output while decreasing reliance on imports. India supplies the ammunition in partnership with Economic Explosives Limited and Munitions India Limited. Larsen & Toubro and Tata Advanced Systems Limited, on the other hand, are working on the command post and launcher systems.
Through this collaboration, the Indian government’s flagship Make in India campaign would be supported and the Pinaka system would be guaranteed to satisfy international standards. Additionally, it would improve India’s standing in the global military industry. After all, over 100 nations received the equipment: some from the rest of Europe, including the US and France, and others from the region’s former Soviet states.
International Markets Show Interest
Defence forces all throughout the globe are interested in the Pinaka system. The French Army’s Brigadier General Stephane Richou recently shown interest in the system as a way to meet France’s military requirements. Such acknowledgement highlights the system’s effectiveness and adaptability and might demonstrate that India is seen as a more dependable supplier in the global military market.
Role of Pinaka in the Indian Army
More than that, to the Indian Army, Pinaka is artillery modernization. In both offence and defence scenarios, this rocket system has been a gold mine since it multi-rolls very well to deliver rapid strikes as well as precise and potent strikes. For instance, it is an excellent system when it comes to breaking through and cutting enemy pocket strong points and it also offers advancing covering fires for troops to move on while it chops off the enemy supply line.
Thirdly, Pinaka could be operated effectively in flat ground, desert, and mountainous terrains. A conventional artillery system supported by this mechanism has a much longer range but higher accuracy, which is most crucial in modern combat wars.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Operating such an advanced system as Pinaka does pose some problems. This system requires an efficient team of well-trained personnel, so it depends on more than that. Another important factor is the regular supply of spare parts and ammunition for its daily operation and readiness.
The focus would still be on further developing and perfecting the system. Further research and development aim to increase its range, precision, and adaptability. The Pinaka system will likely embrace far-sophisticated technologies, including integration with real-time targeting systems and greater automation to keep up with the demands of warfare evolution.
Pinaka is perhaps one of the most resplendent examples of India’s indigenous defence capabilities. It embodies developmental work that best combines technological innovation, operational efficiency, and strategic foresight. From the versatile range of rockets to mobility and adaptability, the Pinaka system has emerged as a frontline part of the Indian Army’s artillery strength.
With its rigorous testing and validation process behind it, Pinaka not only adds punch to Indian military preparedness but also positions India among the foremost players in the world’s defence industry. As the system continues to evolve, it will ultimately shape the future of modern warfare in terms of artillery.
