DRDO of India is currently developing a new high-calibre Pinaka rocket with a range of 120 km.
DRDO Develops New Pinaka Rocket Variant
DRDO of India is currently developing a new high-calibre Pinaka rocket with a range of 120 km. An official from DRDO informed Janes at Aero India 2025 in Bangalore that the development of this new Pinaka rocket variant began in 2024 and is already in an advanced stage, with the first test expected in October 2025. The new longer-range rocket variant will be launched from the Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL), and a new pod will be fitted to the Pinaka MBRL to launch it.
DRDO is also working on additional Pinaka variants, including one with a range of 120 km, and another with a range of over 200 km.
Naval and Air Force Plans for Pinaka System Integration
Beyond the Army, DRDO is also working on specialized variants of the Pinaka system for the Indian Navy and Air Force. In particular, the naval version is designed for underwater operations and submarine countermeasures, with an impressive range of 75 km. The first trial of this naval variant is scheduled to take place later this year, marking a significant step towards enhancing India’s naval defence capabilities. Additionally, the IAF is exploring the possibility of integrating modified Pinaka systems into its arsenal as a more cost-effective alternative to the expensive Pralay missile.
The integration of the Pinaka system with the IAF would not only enhance the Air Force’s strike capabilities but also offer versatility in operational theatres. Pinaka rockets could potentially be adapted for use with Su-30 fighter jets, providing air-to-surface strike capabilities.
