Successful Flight Trials for DRDO’s Pinaka Weapon System

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed a series of flight tests for the Guided Pinaka Weapon System, conducted as part of the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. This critical milestone involved three phases of testing across different field firing ranges, demonstrating the system’s operational effectiveness, precision, and advanced capabilities. 

Overview 

Purpose of Trials 

• Conducted as part of PSQR Validation Trials to validate operational readiness for Indian Army induction.

Trial Phases

• Conducted in three phases at multiple field firing ranges.
• Extensive testing evaluated PSQR parameters like range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire in salvo mode.

Key Parameters Assessed During Trials

1. Range: The system’s ability to strike targets at extended distances.
2. Accuracy: Precision of strikes over varying ranges.
3. Consistency: Repeated effectiveness in hitting designated targets.
4. Rate of Fire: Performance in engaging multiple targets in a single salvo.

Test Specifications

1. Rocket Count: Twelve rockets from each production agency tested.
2. Launchers Used: Two upgraded, in-service Pinaka launchers provided by production agencies.

Development and Design Contributors

Primary Design Agencies

• Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE)
• Research Centre Imarat (RCI)
• Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL)
• High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL)
• Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE)

Production Agencies

For Ammunition: Munitions India Limited and Economic Explosives Limited

For Launchers and Battery Command Posts: Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Larsen & Toubro

Statements from Officials

Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh

• Praised DRDO and the Indian Army for successful PSQR trials.
• Emphasized that the Guided Pinaka will bolster the artillery firepower of the Armed Forces.

Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO

• Congratulations to the teams for meeting pre-requisite flight trials requirements.
• Confirmed readiness of the Guided Pinaka for induction into the Indian Army.

Significance 

• Indigenous Development: Entirely developed in India, underscoring self-reliance in advanced defense technology.
• Enhanced Firepower: Precision strike capability boosts the Indian Army’s operational effectiveness.
• Advanced Features: Incorporates a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) with indigenous components for improved accuracy, efficiency, and strategic flexibility.