Chandipur, India: India’s defence research community marked a major milestone with the successful maiden flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur.
The advanced rocket system was tested to its full capability, achieving a maximum range of 120 kilometres. During the trial, the LRGR executed all planned in‑flight manoeuvres and struck the designated target with remarkable accuracy, underscoring its precision‑guided design.
Precision Tracking and Design Collaboration
Throughout the test, a network of range instruments tracked the rocket’s trajectory from launch to impact, validating its performance. The LRGR has been developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), with additional support from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI).
This joint effort highlights the strength of India’s defence R&D ecosystem, combining expertise in propulsion, guidance, and materials science to deliver a next‑generation weapon system.
Coordinated Trial and Versatile Launcher
The maiden flight was coordinated by the Integrated Test Range (ITR) and the Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE). Importantly, the LRGR was launched using the in‑service Pinaka launcher, demonstrating its adaptability. This capability allows the same launcher to deploy Pinaka rockets of varying ranges, enhancing operational flexibility for the armed forces.
Leadership Reactions
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on the achievement, describing the LRGR as a “game changer” that will significantly strengthen the capabilities of India’s armed forces. He emphasized that the successful design and development of long‑range guided rockets reflects India’s growing self‑reliance in advanced defence technologies.
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, personally witnessed the trial. He commended the teams involved for meeting all mission objectives and praised their dedication in bringing the project to fruition.
Strategic Significance
The successful test of the Pinaka LRGR 120 represents a leap forward in India’s indigenous rocket artillery systems. By extending the range to 120 kilometres while maintaining pinpoint accuracy, the LRGR enhances India’s deterrence and battlefield capabilities.
The system’s versatility, precision, and integration with existing launch platforms make it a valuable addition to India’s defence arsenal, reinforcing the country’s commitment to modernizing its military infrastructure through homegrown innovation.
