Amid rising tensions with Pak, Pinaka range to be doubled from existing 90 km

Amid the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian Army will be keenly watching the expected trials to double the range of rockets fired from the Pinaka systems.

India’s indigenous Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system so far can fire at targets 90 km away. The plan is to increase the range gradually by testing the rockets to fire for 120, 150 and 200 km, respectively. The tests are slated this summer.

Pinaka, which is truck-mounted and provides mobility, can launch a salvo of 72 rockets in just 44 seconds, delivering up to seven tonnes of explosives across enemy targets up to 60 km away. The extended-range variant, Pinaka Mk-II ER, reaches distances up to 90 km.

Sources said the advanced iterations under development were from 120 km, 150 km, and even 200 km ranges. A set of integrated GPS and inertial navigation systems ensure precision targeting.

Designed and developed by the DRDO and produced through a consortium of Indian defence companies, Pinaka combines firepower, precision, mobility, and scalability – qualities essential for both deterrence and decisive military operations.

With a capacity to produce over 5,000 rockets annually, India possesses the capacity to sustain long-term operations without external dependence. Indian defence manufacturers such as Tata Advanced Systems and Larsen & Toubro play a role in the system’s serial production.

Designed for a digitally-enabled battlefield, Pinaka is integrated with state-of-the-art command and control systems that enable network-centric operations and real-time coordination with surveillance and reconnaissance assets. It complements existing artillery and drone systems, enhancing the Indian Army’s layered firepower capabilities.

Pinaka’s operational deployment underscores the Indian Army’s readiness and capability to strike with precision and power. The name Pinaka is derived from after Lord Shiva’s celestial bow.

IAF exercise along Raj border

A notice to airmen (NOTAM) has been issued for an Indian Air force exercise in south-western Rajasthan bordering Pakistan. The NOTAM, as per procedure, was issued by the airports authority of India. “The IAF is conducting a pre- planned routine training exercise,” sources said.

India