Context:
The Indian Army has operationalised its seventh regiment of the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher system and is currently raising an eighth regiment, with plans to expand to ten regiments by next year. The development strengthens India’s long-range artillery and battlefield firepower.
What is the Pinaka MBRL System?
The Pinaka is an indigenously developed multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) capable of firing a salvo of 12 rockets in less than 44 seconds. It is designed as a high-volume area-saturation weapon that can neutralise enemy troops, infrastructure, and artillery positions across large battlefield zones.
Developed By
The system was developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), a laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Key Features of the Pinaka System
Rapid Fire Capability
- A single launcher fires 12 rockets in 44 seconds.
- A battery of six launchers can fire 72 rockets simultaneously, saturating an area of approximately 1,000 Ă— 800 meters.
Range Variants
- Mk-I: Range of about 38 km.
- Mk-II (Extended Range): Range of about 60 km.
- Guided Pinaka: Range between 75–90 km.
