DRDO Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket Successfully

India’s indigenous artillery capabilities received a major boost on Monday as the Defence Research and Development Organisation successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket. The test, carried out from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Odisha, demonstrated high precision and extended strike capability, marking a significant milestone for the Indian Army’s rocket artillery modernisation.

Maiden Test Achieves Maximum Range

According to official sources, the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket, designated LRGR 120, was tested for its full strike range of 120 kilometres. During the trial, the rocket executed all planned in-flight manoeuvres and accurately engaged its designated target. Defence officials described the impact as achieving “textbook precision”, confirming the effectiveness of the guidance and control systems integrated into the weapon.

Enhanced Accuracy Over Earlier Variants

The LRGR 120 represents a major upgrade over earlier unguided Pinaka rockets. It is equipped with an advanced guidance package that combines inertial navigation with mid-course updates and terminal correction. This significantly reduces the circular error probable, enabling precise engagement of high-value targets such as enemy artillery units, command centres, and logistics hubs at extended distances. Importantly, the rocket can be fired from existing Pinaka launchers, avoiding the need for new deployment platforms.

Strategic Context and Defence Approvals

The successful test coincided with the government’s clearance of defence procurement proposals worth approximately Rs 79,000 crore. These approvals were granted by the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and include systems for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Among them are long-range guided rocket ammunition for the Pinaka system, loitering munitions, lightweight radars, and advanced drone detection and interdiction systems.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Pinaka LRGR 120 has a maximum strike range of about 120 kilometres.
• The rocket uses inertial navigation with mid-course and terminal correction.
• It is fired from the existing Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System.
• The test was conducted at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha.

Boost to Indigenous Precision Firepower

The Pinaka LRGR 120 strengthens India’s stand-off strike and counter-force capabilities by allowing deep targets to be engaged from safer distances. Its induction is expected to enhance survivability of artillery units while reinforcing India’s push for indigenous, precision-guided long-range weapons across its armed forces.