Why DRDO’s Successful 120-km Pinaka Rocket Test Is a Big Leap for India’s Artillery Power

India has taken a significant step in strengthening its long-range precision strike capability with the successful maiden flight test of the 120-km Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR). Conducted at Chandipur in Odisha, the test showcased not just extended range, but also high accuracy and manoeuvrability—features that modern battlefields increasingly demand.

What exactly was tested at Chandipur?

On December 30, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (Defence Research and Development Organisation) successfully conducted the maiden flight trial of the Pinaka LRGR-120 at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. Fired from an in-service Pinaka launcher, the rocket struck its intended target at a maximum range of 120 km with what officials described as “textbook precision”.

Crucially, the trial validated all planned in-flight manoeuvres. Multiple tracking instruments followed the rocket throughout its trajectory, confirming guidance, navigation and control systems under realistic operational conditions .

How does this version of Pinaka differ from earlier variants?

The Pinaka system began as an unguided multi-barrel rocket launcher designed for area saturation. Over time, it has evolved into a precision-guided artillery platform. The LRGR-120 represents the longest-range guided version tested so far, building upon earlier 60-km and 90-km guided variants.

Unlike traditional rockets that rely on ballistic trajectories, the LRGR incorporates guidance kits that allow mid-course correction. This dramatically improves accuracy, reduces ammunition expenditure, and enables engagement of high-value targets deep inside enemy territory.

Why firing it from an in-service launcher matters

One of the most operationally significant aspects of the test was that the rocket was launched from an existing Pinaka launcher already inducted into the Army. This demonstrates that different-range Pinaka variants can be fired from the same platform without major modifications.

For the Indian Army, this translates into logistical simplicity, faster induction, and flexible deployment—an important advantage during high-tempo operations along contested borders.

Who developed the LRGR-120?

The rocket has been designed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), a key DRDO laboratory, in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL). Support came from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI), while the trial was coordinated by ITR and the Proof & Experimental Establishment.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement as a “game changer”, noting that long-range guided rockets significantly enhance the firepower and deterrence capability of the Armed Forces.

Why Pinaka matters in India’s military doctrine

The Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher has emerged as one of India’s most successful indigenous artillery systems. Designed for rapid deployment and high-volume fire, it played a critical role in reshaping India’s rocket artillery doctrine by combining mobility with destructive reach.

With guided and extended-range variants, Pinaka now bridges the gap between conventional tube artillery and tactical missiles. This allows commanders to strike deeper targets without escalating to missile use—an important consideration in limited-conflict scenarios.

Export potential and strategic implications

Pinaka’s success is not limited to domestic use. The system has already been exported to Armenia, and several European countries, including France, have shown interest. The successful demonstration of a 120-km guided variant enhances its attractiveness in the global defence market, where demand for cost-effective precision artillery is rising.

Strategically, longer-range guided rockets strengthen India’s deterrence posture by providing credible, accurate, and scalable firepower along both the western and northern borders.

What comes next?

With the Defence Acquisition Council reportedly clearing the project for the Army on the same day as the trial, induction could proceed swiftly. Further user trials, production scaling, and integration into artillery regiments are expected next.

As India pushes for self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the LRGR-120 test underscores a broader shift: indigenous systems are no longer just substitutes for imports—they are increasingly shaping operational doctrine and export strategy.