SUCCESS OF PINAKA ROCKET SYSTEM - DEFENCE

SUCCESS OF PINAKA ROCKET SYSTEM - DEFENCE

NEWS: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight tests of the Guided Pinaka Weapon System as part of the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. This achievement marks a significant step towards integrating the system into India’s arsenal, enhancing its artillery strength and modernization efforts.

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

Overview of the Pinaka System

  • Development Origin: The Pinaka is a multi-barrel rocket launcher system developed by the DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE). It was initially designed to meet the Indian Army's artillery requirements, with consistent upgrades over the years to enhance its performance.
  • Evolution: The system has undergone several iterations, leading to increased range, precision, and operational effectiveness.

Phased Development of the Pinaka System

  1. Pinaka Mk-I:
    • Basic version with a 38 km range.
    • Capable of launching multiple rocket salvoes for broad-area impact.
  2. Pinaka Mk-II:
    • Upgraded version with an extended range of up to 60 km.
    • Enhanced accuracy and firepower.
  3. Extended Range Pinaka:
    • Latest variant with a range of 75 km.
    • Greater precision for targeting over longer distances.

Key Features and Capabilities of the Pinaka System

  • Salvo Launch Capability:
    • Fires 12 rockets in 44 seconds, covering an area of 700 x 500 meters.
    • Capable of delivering high-volume firepower rapidly, effective for targeting enemy formations.

·         Range Capabilities:

    • Mk-I: 38 km.
    • Mk-II: 60 km.
    • Extended Range: 75 km, providing greater standoff capability for the Indian Army.
  • Performance Upgrades:
    • Continuous improvements in accuracy, reliability, and operational functionality.
    • Successful tests, including the 2020 trials of the Enhanced Pinaka variant at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, and the 2021 trials of the Extended Range variant with 25 launches up to 45 km.

Introduction of Guided Munition

  • Guided Pinaka System:

·         Recent flight tests feature guided rockets, offering enhanced precision.

·         Aimed at minimizing collateral damage while targeting specific enemy positions.

Production and Industry Partnerships

  • Domestic Manufacturing:
    • Collaboration with Indian companies like Munitions India Limited and Tata Advanced Systems Limited.
    • Focus on increasing local production and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.

International Interest and Export Potential

  • Global Attention:
    • International interest, including from the French Army, indicates the system’s potential as a globally competitive defence product.
    • Aligns with India’s strategic goals to expand its footprint in the global defence export market.

By enhancing its artillery capabilities through domestic innovation and strategic partnerships, India is reinforcing its position as a formidable force in defence technology, while also exploring opportunities for international cooperation and export.