Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket System (Prelims & Mains- Science & Technology)
Why in news?
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the Flight Tests of Guided Pinaka multi-barrel rocket (MBRL) system as part of Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. The flight tests have been conducted in three phases at different field firing ranges.
About Pinaka
- The Pinaka MBRL was developed by ARDE, a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) India.
- It is a versatile artillery weapon designed to provide long-range firepower in modern military operations.
- Its key feature is its ability to strike targets located up to 75 kilometres away, making it an essential tool for artillery divisions.
- Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket System (MBRS) comprises of a free-flight artillery rocket having a maximum range of 38 km with different types of warhead and fuzes, a multi-tube launcher vehicle, a replenishment-cum-loader vehicle, a replenishment vehicle and a command post vehicle. There are two pods containing 6 rockets each, capable of firing in salvo mode within 48 sec, neutralising the area of 700 x 500 m.
- The system has multiple variants, which offer flexibility in terms of payload, firepower, and range. This versatility makes it suitable for different types of military engagements, such as counter-terrorism, border defence, and conventional warfare.
In light of the requirement of the Army for a free-flight rocket with enhanced range, ARDE has successfully developed Pinaka Mk-II rocket with a 60 km range. The existing launch vehicle and ground systems of Pinaka MBRS is used with minor modifications for firing this new rocket