India on 19 December 2013
successfully test-fired the indigenously developed Pinaka from a base at
Chandipur-on-sea near Balasore, off the Odisha coast. Pinaka is a multi-barrel rocket launcher
(MBRL). Six rounds of Pinaka were successfully tested from the proof and
experimental establishment at Chandipur. The tests were conducted by personnel
from Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune unit.
Since
1995, the Pinaka has undergone several tests has been
inducted in the armed forces and the present
trials were conducted with some improvements in the system. To supplement the
artillery guns, rockets with a range of 40 kilometer capable as a force multiplier has been
developed. The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of the system gave an
edge to the Army during a low-intensity conflict situation.
Earlier in July
2013, more advanced second generation Pinaka Mark II Multi-Barrel Rocket
Launcher System had undergone successful firing trials at Chandhan area in Pokhran field firing ranges in
western Rajasthan.
The Main Features
of Pinaka
• Pinaka is an area weapon system with a range of 40 km.
• The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of Pinaka will give an edge to the Army during a minor conflict situation.
• Pinaka system can fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds. The battery of six launchers can neutraliseat a time a target area of 3.9 sq km.
• Pinaka is capable to incorporate several types of warheads, which make the weapon deadly for the enemy as it can even destroy solid structures and bunkers.
• Pinaka is an area weapon system with a range of 40 km.
• The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of Pinaka will give an edge to the Army during a minor conflict situation.
• Pinaka system can fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds. The battery of six launchers can neutraliseat a time a target area of 3.9 sq km.
• Pinaka is capable to incorporate several types of warheads, which make the weapon deadly for the enemy as it can even destroy solid structures and bunkers.