Defence📖 3 min read

DRDO Pinaka Rocket Test: 60 km Range Achieved, Major Milestone

India's defence capabilities received a boost with the successful test of the Pinaka rocket system, demonstrating an extended range.

Source: GNews DRDO Weapons
Summary of News

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested an enhanced version of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system. This test achieved a range of 60 kilometres, marking a significant milestone for the Indian Army. The trials were conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The Pinaka rocket system is designed to fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds, providing a quick and effective response against enemy targets. This upgraded Pinaka system features advanced navigation and control systems, improving its accuracy and range. The successful test validates the indigenous development efforts by DRDO and strengthens India's self-reliance in defence technology. The Pinaka system will enhance the Indian Army's artillery firepower and its ability to engage targets at longer distances.

Why It Matters

This development is crucial for competitive exams under the Science & Technology and Defence sections (UPSC GS Paper III, SSC General Awareness). It highlights India's progress in indigenous defence manufacturing and missile technology. Aspirants should understand the role of DRDO, the significance of the Pinaka system, and its impact on India's military capabilities and self-reliance in defence.

Key Points for Exam
  • The Pinaka rocket system achieved an extended range of 60 kilometres in its latest test.
  • The trials were conducted by DRDO at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.
  • The Pinaka system can fire 12 rockets in just 44 seconds.
  • It is a multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) system.
  • The upgraded Pinaka features improved navigation and control systems.
  • The system is indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Important Keywords Explained
Pinaka Rocket Systemconcept

Pinaka is an indigenous multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) system developed by DRDO for the Indian Army. It can fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds, providing rapid, all-weather, and all-terrain artillery support. It is designed to neutralise large areas with quick saturation fire.

DRDOorganization

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was established in 1958. Its headquarters are in New Delhi. It is the premier agency of the Government of India, responsible for the development of defence technologies, covering various fields like aeronautics, armaments, electronics, land combat engineering, life sciences, materials, missiles, and naval systems.

Pokhran Field Firing Rangesplace

Pokhran is a municipality in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan, India. It is famous for being the site of India's nuclear weapons tests, conducted in 1974 (Smiling Buddha) and 1998 (Operation Shakti). The field firing ranges are used for testing various missiles and artillery systems.

Additional Facts & Context
1The Pinaka system was first successfully tested in 1995.
2The Mark-I version of Pinaka has a range of 40 km.
3The enhanced Pinaka rocket is designated as Pinaka-ER.
4The system is named after Pinaka, the bow of Shiva.
Examiner's Tip

UPSC and SSC often ask about indigenous defence systems, their developers (like DRDO), and their strategic importance. Focus on the range, type of system, and the organisation involved.

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Memory Trick

Remember 'Pinaka' as 'P' for 'Pokhran' (test site) and '60' for its new range, like a 'P'in with a '60' on it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the upgraded Pinaka rocket system?

The upgraded Pinaka rocket system successfully achieved an extended range of 60 kilometres during its recent test trials.

Who developed the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system?

The Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system was indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Army.

Where were the recent Pinaka rocket tests conducted?

The recent successful tests of the Pinaka rocket system were conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges located in Rajasthan, India.

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