The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is exploring the possibility of adapting its Pinaka multi-barrel rocket system for air-launched roles, a move that could significantly enhance the Indian Air Force's (IAF) combat capabilities in both air-to-ground (A2G) and air-to-air (A2A) scenarios.
This expansion of the Pinaka program includes developing both an air-launched surface strike weapon and a potential air-to-air variant. DRDO is currently in consultation with the IAF to tailor the system, originally created for the Indian Army, to fulfill the Air Force's specific operational requirements.
The Indian Air Force is particularly interested in the long-range Guided Pinaka, currently under development for the Army, which boasts a potential range of 250-300 kilometers. The IAF views this as a cost-effective, domestically produced alternative to imported systems, such as the Israeli Rampage missile.
The Pinaka system, developed by DRDO, has been a key component of the Indian Army's artillery since its initial deployment after the Kargil War. The system has been continually upgraded, with a focus on improving both range and accuracy.
The Guided Pinaka represents a significant advancement, incorporating a sophisticated Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) kit. This allows for precision strikes at distances up to 75 kilometers in its current configuration.
DRDO's ongoing development efforts aim to extend the Pinaka's range considerably, with planned stages of 120 kilometers, 150 kilometers, and ultimately 250-300 kilometers. This progression will establish the Pinaka as a powerful long-range artillery asset.
The IAF's requirement stems from a need for adaptable and affordable weapon systems that can be easily integrated with its current fighter aircraft fleet, including the Su-30 MKI, Mirage 2000, and the domestically produced Tejas.
The 250-300 kilometer range Guided Pinaka is being considered as a potential air-launched surface strike weapon, comparable to the Israeli Rampage missile already in India's arsenal. The Rampage is a supersonic, long-range air-to-ground missile known for its ability to precisely target high-value assets.
The Guided Pinaka is being designed with modularity in mind, ensuring it can be used with various launch platforms. DRDO is prioritizing a design that allows for launches from truck-based canisters for the Army, while also being easily adaptable for air-launch with minimal modifications.
This approach is crucial for maintaining cost-effectiveness and simplifying the manufacturing process, as it ensures a consistent core design and production line across different versions of the missile.
An air-launched version of the Pinaka would offer the IAF increased operational flexibility, enabling precision strikes against a variety of targets, such as enemy defenses, command centers, and supply depots, from a significant distance.
Furthermore, the potential development of an air-to-air variant could bolster the IAF's capabilities, particularly in engaging slow-moving aerial threats like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
