In a significant advancement for India’s self-reliant military capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the inaugural flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR-120) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur. This successful trial took place alongside a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), where defense procurement proposals worth ₹79,000 crore were approved, including those for the Long Range Guided Rockets-120.
The Pinaka LRGR-120 was tested up to its maximum range of 120 kilometers, achieving precise targeting through a series of planned in-flight maneuvers. All associated tracking equipment monitored the rocket’s trajectory, affirming its performance metrics. This successful trial marks a crucial milestone in the evolving Pinaka rocket artillery program and significantly enhances the Indian Army’s capabilities in long-range precision strikes.
The LRGR-120 has been meticulously developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in collaboration with various laboratories, including the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) and the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL). The launch was performed using an in-service Pinaka launcher, showcasing the versatility of the system, which can handle multiple variants with distinct range capabilities from the same platform.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his congratulations to the DRDO teams involved in the successful test, emphasizing the profound impact that the long-range guided rockets will have on the Indian Armed Forces. He described the development as a “game changer” for the nation’s artillery capabilities.
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, DRDO Chairman and Secretary for Defence Research and Development, was present during the trial and commended the scientists and engineers for achieving all mission objectives. The successful launch of the LRGR-120, combined with the DAC’s backing for its procurement, is expected to expedite the deployment of advanced Pinaka variants, further augmenting India’s precision strike and deterrence capabilities. This development underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense manufacturing while solidifying its military prowess on the global stage.
