DRDO developed guided Pinaka system is among the world’s best.
New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed guided Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) system is one of the world’s best and several countries are vying to get it from India for defence purposes.
The Indian Army is said to introduce and deploy the Pinaka system later this year which will significantly enhance its firepower and upgrade the artillery of the Indian Army.
The latest reports suggest that in a big strategic move the Indian Army is considering to suspend the purchase of high-cost tactical missiles and go for homemade Pinaka rocket system. For this, the DRDO has been certified to expand the Pinaka series and develop at least two new variants. Both these variants will be equipped with advanced guidance systems.
The Indian Army has approved the development of two longer-range Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launchers (MBRL) while DRDO laboratory Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) will develop the rockets with ranges of 120 km and 300 km.
Pune based and headquartered state-owned defence company Munitions India Limited (MIL) will produce the rockets under a transfer of technology agreement with the DRDO once the two variants are developed.
The Indian Army has reportedly asked for the 300 km variant as its big size lets it fire bigger payload, ensure compatibility with existing launch platforms and its capacity to strike deep in the enemy territory and destroy military hardware and set-up. Apart from this, the 300 km variant not only assures extended reach but also the precision needed for strategic operations.
Here are some of the key features of Guided Pinaka
- The Guided Pinaka is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- The system also represents a significant leap in India’s indigenous artillery capabilities.
- The system went through rigorous testing in three phases across various field firing ranges, validating its enhanced range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire.
- The Pinaka system, originally developed as an unguided rocket launcher with a range of around 40 km, has seen significant advancements over the years.
- The guided version now features cutting-edge navigation, control, and guidance technologies, enabling precision targeting.
- This precision is vital in modern warfare, where reducing collateral damage is a top priority.
- These guided rockets are expected to gradually replace some of the older, unguided variants currently in use, offering a more efficient and effective means of neutralizing enemy targets from a greater distance.
- Manufactured by several Indian defence firms under DRDO’s supervision, the Pinaka system exemplifies India’s growing indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
