New Delhi: The Indian Army seventh Pinaka regiment has been operationalised, marking a major step in strengthening India’s long-range artillery capabilities. This move is part of the Army’s larger plan to modernise its artillery forces with indigenous systems.
The Pinaka rocket system, developed in India, is designed to deliver quick and powerful strikes across large areas, especially along sensitive borders with China and Pakistan.
What is the Pinaka Rocket System
The Pinaka is an advanced multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
It is one of India’s most important indigenous artillery systems.
- Each launcher can fire 12 rockets in less than 40 seconds
- A full battery (6 launchers) can fire 72 rockets in just 44 seconds
- It can hit targets up to 38–40 km, with newer versions reaching 75 km+
- It can destroy an area of about 1 square kilometre in one strike
This system gives the Army the ability to launch rapid, high-volume attacks on enemy positions.
What is the Importance of Seventh Pinaka Regiment
The operationalisation of the 7th Pinaka regiment is significant for India’s defence preparedness.
Key Importance:
- Strengthens long-range artillery firepower
- Enhances quick response capability in border areas
- Supports deployment along northern (China) and western (Pakistan) fronts
- Reduces dependence on older imported systems like Grad rockets
Currently, multiple Pinaka regiments are already deployed along key borders, and the Army is expanding this number steadily.
How a Pinaka Regiment Works
Each Pinaka regiment is a powerful, coordinated unit:
- 3 batteries per regiment
- 6 launchers per battery
- Total: 18 launchers per regiment
Supporting systems include:
- Command vehicles with fire control computers
- Replenishment vehicles
- Meteorological radar systems
This setup allows precise targeting and coordinated firing.
What is the Role of Pinaka in India’s Artillery Modernisation
The Pinaka system is central to the Army’s long-term artillery upgrade plan.
- India plans to deploy up to 22 Pinaka regiments in the future
- It will replace older Soviet-era Grad systems
- It is fully indigenously developed, boosting “Make in India” defence goals
The Army is also working on guided and extended-range versions to improve accuracy and strike distance.
What is the Impact of Seventh Pinaka Regiment
The addition of the seventh regiment will:
- Improve deep strike capability in mountainous regions
- Allow faster deployment of firepower during conflicts
- Strengthen deterrence against adversaries
- Support integrated operations with artillery guns like Bofors and M777
Pinaka’s ability to fire multiple rockets in seconds makes it highly effective in modern warfare.
