In Pokhran, an upgraded Pinaka rocket system with a longer range was successfully tested

A series of successful tests of the expanded range Pinaka rocket launcher system were conducted at the Pokhran range during the last three days.

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence said, "The DRDO, along with the Army, conducted a series of performance evaluation trials. In these trials, enhanced range Pinaka rockets were test-fired at different ranges with various warhead capabilities. All the trial objectives were met satisfactorily. 24 rockets were fired for different ranges and warhead capabilities to meet the objectives of accuracy and consistency."

The initial phase of technological absorption of the Pinaka-ER (extended range) by the industry partner has now been successfully completed, allowing the upgraded rocket system to be put into production, according to the ministry.

WHAT EXACTLY IS PINAKA-ER?

The Pinaka-ER is an improved variant of the older Pinaka, which has served in the Indian Army for the past decade. The system was created with new technology in mind to meet emerging needs. The new Pinaka has a range of about 70 kilometers, compared to the current system's 45 kilometers.

Pinaka is a multi-barrel artillery rocket system that can operate in any weather conditions. In 44 seconds, it can fire 72 rockets. It fires lethal and timely fire against a range of area targets, including exposed enemy troops, armoured and soft-skinned vehicles, communication centres, air terminal complexes, fuel and ammunition dumps, and more.

The Pinaka provides ground forces with a deep strike capability and is capable of attacking vital military targets.

During tensions that erupted in Ladakh in May of last year, the Pinaka missile system was recently deployed near the Chinese border.

The system was developed in collaboration between the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune and the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune, both of which are part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

At the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges, the Area Denial Munition (ADM) types designed by ARDE and manufactured by industry partners under technology transfer were successfully tested. These tests are part of the technology absorption performance evaluation.

Pinaka rocket proximity fuzes, which were created in-house, have also been tested.