DRDO conducts successful flight-test of Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket

Why in news

Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight-test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Science & Technology, Internal Security · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. DRDO conducted a successful flight-test of Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR).
2. The test was conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.
3. The rocket was tested for a user-defined minimum range of 60 kms.
4. The LRGR demonstrated all in-flight manoeuvres and impacted the target with precision.
5. The Pinaka LRGR rocket is designed by Armament Research and Development Establishment in association with High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, with support from Defence Research and Development Laboratory and Research Centre Imarat.
6. The flight-trial was coordinated by ITR and Proof & Experimental Establishment.
7. The rocket was launched from an in-service Pinaka launcher, demonstrating versatility and launch capability for different Pinaka variants.

Prelims pointers

• Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) developed by DRDO.
• Tested at Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.
• Minimum test range: 60 kms.
• Designed by Armament Research and Development Establishment and High Energy Materials Research Laboratory.
• Supports launch capability of different Pinaka variants from the same launcher.

Mains practice question

Examine the significance of the successful flight-test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) for India's defense preparedness and its implications for indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities.

Static linkage

The Pinaka is an indigenous multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) system developed by DRDO. This successful test signifies advancements in India's indigenous defense technology, particularly in guided rocket systems, contributing to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Significance

The successful flight-test of the Pinaka LRGR is a significant milestone for India's defense capabilities. It demonstrates enhanced precision and range for indigenous rocket systems, bolstering national security. The versatility of the launcher allows for deployment of various Pinaka variants, increasing operational flexibility. This achievement underscores India's growing self-reliance in designing and developing advanced guided weapon systems.