IAS Gyan

Daily News Analysis

PINAKA Rocket System

5th November, 2020 Defence

Context: Enhanced version of PINAKA Rocket System successfully Flight Tested.

Pinaka

  • It is a multiple rocket launcher produced in India and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Army.
  • The system has a maximum range of 40 km for Mark-I and 75 km for Mark-II, and can fire a salvo of 12 HE rockets in 44 seconds.
  • Pinaka saw service during the Kargil War, where it was successful in neutralising enemy positions on the mountain tops.
  • It has since been inducted into the Indian Army in large numbers.
  • As of 2014, about 5,000 missiles are being produced every year while an advanced variant is under development with enhanced range and accuracy.
  • As of 2019, an upgraded guided missile version of the system has been test-fired, with a range of over 90 km.

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1670104