The Pinaka rocket launcher system is a crucial asset in India’s artillery capabilities, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Named after Lord Shiva’s bow, Pinaka is a multiple-barrel rocket launcher designed to deliver a powerful and effective means of firepower support to the Indian Armed Forces. It was introduced in the late 1990s as an indigenous replacement for the older Soviet-era BM-21 Grad system, providing enhanced accuracy, mobility, and destructive power.
Pinaka is known for its rapid fire capability, capable of launching 12 rockets in just 44 seconds. It has a striking range of approximately 40 to 75 kilometers, depending on the variant, with newer versions extending the range beyond 90 kilometers. The launcher is mounted on an 8×8 Tatra truck, which ensures high mobility and the ability to quickly reposition, an essential feature for modern battlefield tactics. Each rocket is capable of carrying a variety of warheads, including high explosive, incendiary, anti-personnel, and anti-tank payloads, making it highly versatile.
One of the notable features of Pinaka is its advanced Fire Control System (FCS) and guidance capabilities. The Pinaka Mk-II, an upgraded version, incorporates guidance systems that enhance accuracy significantly, using both inertial navigation and satellite guidance. This upgrade allows for pinpoint targeting, minimizing collateral damage and increasing effectiveness against enemy assets. Pinaka is also integrated into a network-centric warfare system, making it easier to coordinate strikes with real-time intelligence and inputs.
The Pinaka system has been successfully deployed in various field operations and military exercises. It played a key role during the Kargil conflict in 1999, where its ability to deliver sustained bombardment over large areas proved highly effective against entrenched enemy positions. In recent years, the system has seen improvements in range, payload capacity, and precision to meet the evolving needs of the armed forces. The Pinaka rocket launcher remains a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology, contributing to a significant deterrent capability along its borders.
Pinaka is now a vital part of India’s artillery modernization program, with plans for further development including the Pinaka Mk-III and integration with unmanned aerial vehicles for enhanced target acquisition. This evolving system symbolizes India’s defense ambitions and technological capabilities, providing the armed forces with a flexible, potent tool for battlefield dominance.