DRDO Developing Pinaka-MK3: Enhancing India's Strike Range to 300 km

New Development:

Pinaka-MK3 Rocket Launcher: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing India's military capabilities with the development of the Pinaka-MK3, a long-range rocket launcher.

Key Points:

1. Enhanced Strike Capability: The Pinaka-MK3 is set to drastically improve the Indian Army’s strike range and power, extending its operational reach significantly.
2. Legacy: This new version builds on the success of the original Pinaka system, which played a pivotal role during the Kargil War by effectively targeting enemy positions and disrupting Pakistani strategies.

Pinaka System Overview:

1. Type: Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL).
2. Developed By: Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), a DRDO laboratory.
3. Function: Designed to deliver lethal and responsive fire against various targets, including troops, vehicles, communication centres, and ammunition dumps.

Current Versions:

1. Pinaka Mk-1: Range of 48 km.
2. Pinaka Mk-I Enhanced: Range of 60 km.
3. Pinaka Mk-II: Range of 90 km.

Pinaka-MK3 Details:

1. Variants:
   1. First Variant: Expected range of 120 km or more.
   2. Subsequent Variants: Range up to 300 km.
2. Speed: Approximately 5757.70 km/h.
3. Capabilities: Effective in all weather conditions; can attack both distant and aerial targets.

Technical Specifications:

1. Components: Includes a multi-tube launcher vehicle, replenishment-cum-loader vehicle, replenishment vehicle, and command post vehicle.
2. Performance: Features two pods with six rockets each, capable of neutralizing an area of 700 × 500 square meters within 48 seconds.
3. Rocket Payload: 214mm Pinaka rocket with 100 kg payload; options for anti-tank mines and high explosives.
4. Mobility: Mounted on a Tatra truck; supported by four hydraulically actuated outriggers during firing.

Strategic Deployment:

1. Borders: The Pinaka system is deployed along India’s borders with China and Pakistan. The system has been actively utilized since May 2020 amidst ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

About DRDO:

1. Role: R&D wing of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
2. Mission: To empower India with cutting-edge defence technologies and achieve self-reliance in critical defence systems.
3. History: Formed in 1958 through the merger of existing technical establishments and the Defence Science Organisation (DSO).

Conclusion:

The development of the Pinaka-MK3 represents a significant advancement in India's military technology, poised to enhance the Indian Army's operational effectiveness and strategic reach. With its extended range and advanced capabilities, the Pinaka-MK3 will strengthen India's defense posture, particularly along sensitive borders with China and Pakistan. The DRDO's ongoing efforts underscore India's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities and achieving self-reliance in cutting-edge military technology.

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