GS Paper |
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Topics for UPSC Prelims |
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) |
Topics for UPSC Mains |
Role of DRDO in strengthening India’s defence capability, Importance of Multi-Barrel Rocket Launch Systems (MBRL) |
The Pinaka missile is a powerful multi-barrel rocket launcher system developed in India. It enhances the Indian Army's firepower by delivering a high volume of explosives in a short span of time. Named after Lord Shiva's divine bow, the Pinaka is a testament to India's self-reliance in advanced defense technologies. It has evolved through several versions, including the latest guided Pinaka, and plays a crucial role in modern battlefield strategies. The system is deployed across varied terrains such as deserts, plains, and mountains and supports quick-strike capabilities during combat.
For UPSC aspirants, the Pinaka missile: upsc is highly relevant. It is covered under General Studies Paper 3, specifically in sections related to Science and Technology, Internal Security, and Indigenization of Technology. Questions related to the Pinaka rocket system upsc can appear in both the prelims and mains. Understanding the technical, strategic, and policy aspects of this system is crucial for scoring well in these areas.
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Why in News? The Pinaka missile system was recently in the spotlight due to successful live firing drills conducted near the northern borders. These firings were carried out by Indian Army artillery units to demonstrate readiness for short-notice deployment in high-altitude areas. The drills involved precision strikes using the advanced Pinaka rocket system, which proved its capability in mountain warfare conditions. According to a report published by The Sunday Guardian, this demonstration validated India’s preparedness and operational efficiency in deploying indigenous rocket systems like the Pinaka rocket launcher swiftly and effectively. Such high-altitude drills are significant for India’s strategic positioning, especially given the terrain and ongoing regional tensions. The readiness and reliability of systems like the guided pinaka reinforce India’s defense capabilities and highlight the success of indigenously developed multi-barrel rocket launchers. These developments make the pinaka missile upsc an essential topic for current affairs, especially in the context of national security and technological indigenization. |
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The Pinaka missile is a multi-barrel rocket launcher system. It is used by the Indian Army. It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The pinaka system launches a group of rockets in a short span of time. It destroys enemy posts, supply lines, and troop concentrations.
The system can fire 12 rockets in just 44 seconds. These rockets are high-explosive and can destroy an area of 1 km by 1 km. It is also called a force multiplier. It helps the Indian Army in winning battles using long-range strikes.
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The Pinaka missile system was developed to reduce reliance on foreign rocket systems and enhance India's indigenous defense capabilities, beginning in the 1980s and evolving through multiple successful upgrades.
The Pinaka rocket system was started in the 1980s. India wanted to replace the Russian "Grad" rocket system. DRDO began working on an indigenous option. The goal was to achieve self-reliance in multi-barrel rocket systems.
By 1995, the system was tested successfully. The Indian Army used it in the Kargil War (1999). It performed well in high-altitude areas. Since then, its versions have evolved.
The Indian Army inducted the first Pinaka regiment in 2000. Over the years, more regiments were added. Each regiment includes launchers, loader-cum-replenishment vehicles, and command posts.
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The Pinaka missile system includes advanced launchers, guided rockets, and warheads, designed for precision, mobility, and high-impact battlefield performance.
Feature |
Details |
Type |
Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) |
Developer |
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India |
Platform |
Mounted on high-mobility Tatra truck |
Launcher Tubes |
12 tubes per launcher |
Salvo Time |
Fires 12 rockets in 44 seconds |
Rocket Types |
Mk-1, Mk-2, Mk-3, and Guided Pinaka |
Pinaka Missile Range |
Mk-1: 40 km, Mk-2: 60–75 km, Mk-3 & Guided: Up to 90+ km |
Navigation System |
Inertial Navigation System (INS) and GPS (for guided version) |
Warhead Types |
High Explosive, Incendiary, Anti-Tank Submunitions, Mine-laying |
Mobility |
High mobility with rapid shoot-and-scoot capability |
Accuracy (CEP) |
Less than 20 meters for guided version |
Operational Use |
All-weather, multi-terrain (desert, plains, mountains) |
The Pinaka rocket launcher is mounted on a Tatra truck. This makes it mobile. It can shift positions quickly. The launcher has 12 tubes for launching rockets. It can fire all rockets in under a minute. This gives a very high volume of fire.
The Pinaka system can use different warheads:
The Pinaka missile range varies by model:
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The MBRL full form is the Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher. This means the launcher can fire many rockets at once. The Pinaka MBRL is one such system made by India.
It delivers a large number of rockets over a wide area. This helps in intense short-duration attacks. The system can destroy enemy positions in one quick strike.
The Pinaka missile system and U.S.-made HIMARS are advanced rocket artillery platforms. Both serve different strategic needs, and comparing them highlights India’s indigenous capability versus global long-range precision systems.
Feature |
Pinaka Missile |
HIMARS |
Country of Origin |
India |
USA |
Range |
40–90 km |
70–300+ km |
Launch Tubes |
12 |
6 |
Guided Version |
Yes (guided pinaka) |
Yes |
Terrain Suitability |
Indian terrain |
Global |
Cost |
Lower |
Higher |
The Indian Army has inducted several Pinaka rocket launcher regiments. These are used in border areas. Each regiment can fire hundreds of rockets in a short time.
It can work in all-weather conditions. It is useful in surprise attacks. The quick firing and fast relocation make it hard to detect.
The system can work alone or in combination with artillery and drones. It is a part of India’s network-centric warfare.
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During the Kargil War, the Pinaka missile system was tested. It gave a strong performance. It destroyed enemy bunkers in tough mountains.
In future, the Indian Army plans to expand its usage. More regiments will be added. The system will get AI-based targeting and real-time updates.
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The guided Pinaka is the future of this system. It uses GPS and INS. It has a range of 90 km. The hit accuracy has improved a lot.
The Circular Error Probability (CEP) is less than 20 meters. This means the rocket lands very close to the target. It can be used for surgical strikes.
The system is also being upgraded with drone support and radar data. It will soon be a smart battlefield asset.
Why Pinaka Missile: UPSC Relevance Important for Prelims and MainsUPSC often asks about Indian defense systems. The Pinaka missile: upsc is a repeated term in GS Paper 3. You must learn its features, development, and usage. It is also part of indigenization and self-reliance topics. Practice MCQs and mains answers. |
India supports local defense systems under:
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Pinaka Rocket UPSC MCQs and Practice Questions MCQ: Which statements are correct?
Options: Correct Answer: B Mains Question: |
Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants
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The Pinaka missile is a pride of Indian defense. It represents self-reliance and modern warfare strength. The system has evolved with technology. It is useful in all terrains and fast-moving operations.
For UPSC, the Pinaka missile: upsc and pinaka rocket system upsc are essential keywords. Aspirants must understand it from static and current perspectives. Link it with NCERT knowledge and policy updates. It is a shining example of India’s defense transformation.
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