India successfully test-fired indigenously developed MBLR Pinaka at Chandipur

India on 19 December 2013 successfully test-fired the indigenously developed Pinaka from a base at Chandipur-on-sea near Balasore, off the Odisha coast. Pinaka is a multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL). Six rounds of Pinaka were successfully tested from the proof and experimental establishment at Chandipur. The tests were conducted by personnel from Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune unit.    

Since 1995, the Pinaka has undergone several tests has been inducted in the armed forces and the present trials were conducted with some improvements in the system. To supplement the artillery guns, rockets with a range of 40 kilometer capable as a force multiplier has been developed. The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of the system gave an edge to the Army during a low-intensity conflict situation.

Earlier in July 2013, more advanced second generation Pinaka Mark II Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher System had undergone successful firing trials at Chandhan area in Pokhran field firing ranges in western Rajasthan.

The Main Features of Pinaka
• Pinaka is an area weapon system with a range of 40 km.
• The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of Pinaka will give an edge to the Army during a minor conflict situation.
• Pinaka system can fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds. The battery of six launchers can neutralise at a time a target area of 3.9 sq km.
• Pinaka is capable to incorporate several types of warheads, which make the weapon deadly for the enemy as it can even destroy solid structures and bunkers.

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