The recent successful flight-testing of an enhanced version of the Pinaka Mark (Mk)-1 missile has been making headlines. The test occurred at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, paving the way for a new chapter in Indian defense technology.
Background and Longer-Range Performance
The development of this enhanced Pinaka Mk-1 system was embarked upon to achieve superior range performance compared to the initial design. Interestingly, this was accomplished without increasing the length of the missile. Indeed, modifications were aimed at enhancing functionality while maintaining a compact form factor.
Design and Development
Credit for the design and development of the enhanced missile system goes to the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL). These Pune-based Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratories have been instrumental in achieving this technological feat.
Significance and Implications
The Enhanced Pinaka Mk-1 is set to replace the original Pinaka Mk-1 missiles currently deployed by Indian Army regiments along India’s borders with China and Pakistan. The enhanced version boasts a range of 45 km, a significant improvement over the 38 km range of the Mark-1, among other added features.
Continued Testing and Deployment
This recent test follows a number of missile trials conducted by the DRDO in the last few months. Moreover, it comes after the announcement by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) that contracts were signed for the supply of six regiments of Pinaka Rocket System from three Indian private companies.
Pinaka Missile Development: A brief history
The development of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket systems was initiated by the DRDO in the late 1980s. This was done as an alternative to the Russian-made Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher systems known as ‘Grad’. After successful tests of Pinaka Mark-1 in the late 1990s, it was first used successfully in the battlefield during the 1999 Kargil War.
Pinaka: Features and Functionality
The Pinaka, a multi-barrel rocket-launcher (MBRL) system, can fire a salvo of 12 rockets in just 44 seconds. Named after Shiva’s bow, one battery of the system comprises six launch vehicles, complete with loader systems, radar and links with network-based systems, and a command post.
Variations of the Pinaka System
Over the years, DRDO has developed and successfully tested the Mk-II and guided variants of the Pinaka. These variants boast extended ranges up to 75 km and come equipped with an integrated navigation, control, and guidance system. The guided Pinaka missile, notably, benefits from the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), making for enhanced accuracy and extended range.
