The Indian Army has approved the development of two longer-range Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launchers (MBRL).
Defense Research and Development Organization subsidiary Armament Research and Development Establishment will develop the rockets with ranges of 120 kilometers (74 miles) and 300 kilometers (186 miles), Janes revealed, citing sources.
Once developed, state-owned rocket manufacturer Munitions India Limited will produce the rockets under a transfer of technology agreement with the Defense Research and Development Organization.
Over 6,000 Pinaka Rounds Approved
Preliminary Services Qualitative Requirements, which specify essential and desirable parameters of a system of the 120-kilometer-range rocket, are being formulated by the Armament Research and Development Establishment, Janes wrote.
However, the developmental status of the 300-kilometer-range rocket has not been revealed.
Meanwhile, the Indian government approved the procurement of 6,400 Pinaka rockets in November for $337 million.
Pinaka Development
Developed as a replacement for the Soviet-origin Grad system, the Pinaka has been one of the first few indigenous weapon systems India has exported to friendly countries, including Armenia.
A total of 10 Pinaka regiments have been operational in the Indian Army since 2000, equipped with the base-variant Pinaka Mk-1.
The longer-range Pinaka Mk-2 has completed its user trials, with production yet to begin.
Features
A Pinaka launcher can fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds up to 38 kilometers (23 miles).
The 214mm Pinaka rocket features a payload of 100 kilograms (220 pounds), with the option of a range of warheads such as anti-tank mines and blast-cum-pre-fragmented high explosives.
