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In a significant leap forward, India’s indigenous Pinaka multi-barrel rocket system has now become a precision strike weapon, attracting international interest from Armenia, which has already procured the system, and France, which is actively evaluating it.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced on Thursday that it had successfully conducted flight tests of the Guided Pinaka Weapon System. The tests were part of the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials, marking a key milestone in India's defense capabilities. The transition to a guided version is a notable improvement, allowing for precision targeting with seeker technology, setting it apart from the earlier version that was unguided and primarily used for area saturation strikes.
What Sets the Guided Pinaka Apart?
The addition of seeker technology has significantly enhanced the Pinaka's operational range and targeting accuracy, making it a more versatile weapon for the Indian Army and potential international clients. The newly guided system can execute precision strikes over a longer distance than its predecessor. Sources indicate that the ongoing upgrades to the Pinaka system are designed to counter threats posed by China's long-range guided rocket systems, positioning the Pinaka as a competitive choice in international defense markets.
Current efforts by DRDO aim to expand the Pinaka’s range to 120km, 150km, and even 200km, addressing the need for a long-range precision system in India’s defense arsenal. This new version enhances its capabilities for both national defense and export potential, as it outperforms the existing range of around 37km and even the enhanced 45km range in the recently inducted Pinaka rockets.
Armenia and France: International Interest in Pinaka
Armenia, facing geopolitical challenges, has become the first international buyer of the Pinaka rocket system, with its first regiment exported in early October. France, intrigued by the guided capabilities of this advanced system, is evaluating its potential for inclusion in their military arsenal, according to sources within the defense industry. This interest underscores Pinaka’s position as a formidable indigenous alternative in the international defense landscape, offering a high level of performance at competitive costs.
The Rigorous Testing Process
The recent series of trials covered comprehensive aspects of the system’s functionality, including ranging accuracy, consistency, and salvo firing capabilities. DRDO organized the flight tests in three distinct phases across various field ranges to ensure that the Pinaka system meets rigorous operational standards. These tests assessed rockets from each production agency and utilized upgraded launchers to deliver precise and powerful attacks on multiple targets in rapid succession.
The weapon system's development reflects a collaboration between several specialized DRDO units, including the Armament Research and Development Establishment, Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Proof & Experimental Establishment. This multi-institutional partnership has allowed for a high degree of innovation in rocket technology, resulting in a guided system that meets the stringent PSQR parameters.
Production Partnerships and Future Prospects
Manufacturing for the Guided Pinaka system is managed by state-run Munitions India Ltd and Economic Explosives Ltd, with Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Larsen & Toubro responsible for producing the launchers and command posts. The involvement of these major industrial players has ensured high production quality, allowing the Pinaka to meet both Indian Army standards and the expectations of foreign military buyers.
The Pinaka’s evolving capabilities reflect India’s ambition to strengthen its defense self-reliance and expand its footprint in the global arms market. As countries like Armenia integrate this system into their military, and with France potentially following suit, India is set to emerge as a key player in providing advanced, cost-effective guided rocket technology worldwide. This strategic move not only boosts India’s defense exports but also bolsters its geopolitical influence through defense partnerships.
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