Pinaka System: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is making great progress in developing a new Pinaka rocket with a much longer range. This new version, which can reach up to 120 km, is expected to be tested in October 2025. DRDO started working on this powerful rocket in 2024, and the project has already reached an advanced stage. Officials revealed this update at Aero India 2025.
While the exact size of the new rocket is not yet public, sources suggest it will be similar to Russia’s Smerch rockets, which have a 300 mm calibre and have been in use by the Indian Army since 2007. This new Pinaka rocket will be launched from the existing Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL), and DRDO is also making a new pod to accommodate these longer-range rockets.
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Pinaka System
The Pinaka system has proven to be strong and reliable over the years. The rockets it currently fires are 214 mm in size and use solid fuel. Some are guided, while others are unguided. The launch system has been used effectively in battle. The new version, which can hit targets 120 km away, will give the Indian Army more power while still working with the existing launchers. This means the Army can upgrade its weapons without spending too much money.
Future Upgrades and Extended Range Versions
DRDO is not stopping with just one new version. Scientists are also working on another Pinaka rocket that will have an even greater range of more than 200 km. The Indian Army has already approved the development of both the 120 km and the 200 km versions. Military experts believe these rockets will help India defend itself better, especially along its borders, where tensions can rise quickly.
Currently, Smerch rockets can hit targets up to 90 km away, while the regular Pinaka rockets can only reach around 40 km. The new 120 km Pinaka will stay the same size as earlier models at 214 mm. However, the even more powerful 200 km version will need a bigger rocket and a different launcher to support it. The Indian Army has committed to these upgrades, showing its determination to improve its firepower. Experts believe these new rockets will greatly strengthen India’s ability to prevent and respond to threats.
Specialized Variants for Navy and Air Force
DRDO is also working on special versions of the Pinaka system for the Indian Navy and Air Force. The naval version, designed for underwater warfare and submarine defence, will have a range of 75 km. DRDO plans to test this new naval rocket later this year. The Indian Air Force is also considering using modified Pinaka rockets as a cheaper alternative to the expensive Pralay missile. If successful, the Air Force could even attach these rockets to Su-30 fighter jets, allowing them to hit ground targets at a lower cost than using high-priced missiles.
Strengthening India’s Defence
The Indian government is focused on modernizing its military, and the Pinaka system is a key part of that effort. India wants to become more self-reliant in making its own advanced weapons. The Pinaka rockets are already important in the Army’s strategy, and the new long-range versions will only make them more valuable. Military experts say that longer-range, precise rockets like the new Pinaka versions are vital for India’s defence, especially as security challenges continue to evolve.
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With DRDO pushing forward, even more advanced rocket technology is expected in the future. The 120 km and 200 km versions are major improvements, but scientists will likely continue developing even stronger and smarter weapons.
