The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing flight tests for the Guided Pinaka Weapon System, fulfilling the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) validation trials. These trials were conducted in three phases across multiple field firing ranges to test the system’s capabilities rigorously.
“In these trials, DRDO thoroughly evaluated key PSQR parameters such as range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire, with a particular focus on the system’s capability to engage multiple targets in salvo mode,” stated the Ministry of Defence.
Each test phase included an extensive assessment of twelve rockets from each production agency, launched from two upgraded, in-service Pinaka launchers. The trials demonstrated operational consistency and targeting accuracy, showcasing the upgraded launchers’ enhanced performance.
This successful validation marks the Guided Pinaka Weapon System ready for deployment, bolstering India’s artillery strength. The system exemplifies DRDO’s commitment to advancing Indigenous defence technology, with an eye on increasing India’s long-range artillery capabilities.
DRDO has successfully completed the Flight Tests of Guided #Pinaka Weapon System. Various parameters such as ranging, accuracy, consistency and rate of fire for multiple target engagement in a salvo mode were assessed during the trials. The tests were conducted in three phases at… pic.twitter.com/qVtq4MqCse
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) November 14, 2024
Work is also underway on extended-range variants of the Guided Pinaka system, capable of reaching 120 km, 150 km, and 200 km to counter China’s long-range guided rocket systems. The current Pinaka ranges around 37 km, while recently inducted enhanced-range rockets can reach up to 45 km.
Work is ongoing on a guided Pinaka system with ranges of 120km, 150km & 200km to counter China’s long-range guided rocket systems. The existing Pinaka has a range of about 37km. The enhanced-range rockets that are also being inducted have a range of about 45km.
The Guided Pinaka has also garnered international interest. Armenia has purchased the system, and its first regiment was exported this month. France is reportedly evaluating the Guided Pinaka for potential acquisition, marking another step forward for India’s defence exports.
Team BharatShakti
