The Indian Army is poised to significantly enhance its deep-strike artillery capabilities as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) prepares for the crucial long-range validation of the Pinaka Mk3 rocket system.
Initially scheduled for late 2025, these trials have been rescheduled to early 2026. The successful completion of these tests is expected to trigger a fast-track procurement process for the next-generation indigenous rocket system.
Pivotal Trials for Next-Gen Artillery
Preparations are currently in full swing for the comprehensive long-range firing trials of the Pinaka Mk3, designed to strike targets up to 120 km away.According to defence sources, the development of the pre-production variant of the Mk3 rocket is complete, signalling a major achievement for India’s indigenous Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) programme.
This advancement is a critical step in modernising the Army’s artillery, reducing reliance on older imported systems like the Russian ‘Smerch’ and ‘Grad’.
Building on Proven Technology
The Pinaka Mk3 leverages advanced guidance technology transferred from the combat-proven Guided Pinaka variant.The Guided Pinaka, which has a range of 75 km, utilises an Inertial Navigation System (INS) aided by Satellite Navigation (SATNAV) and aerodynamic control fins (canards) to achieve high precision.
By reusing this validated technology, the DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) aims to significantly lower developmental risks and speed up the transition from testing to active service.
The upcoming 2026 trials will specifically focus on verifying the system's accuracy and stability at its extended 120 km range under rigorous operational conditions defined by the Indian Army.
Strategic Procurement and Deep-Strike Capability
While the trial timeline has shifted slightly from October 2025 to early 2026, the strategic intent remains urgent.Upon the successful conclusion of these user trials, the Indian Army intends to initiate a fast-track procurement process. The projected order is estimated to be worth approximately ₹2,500 crore.
This acquisition highlights the Army’s doctrinal shift towards enhancing long-range precision firepower, allowing for effective counter-battery fire and the ability to neutralise high-value targets deep within enemy territory.
Cost-Effective Integration
A key operational benefit of the Pinaka Mk3 is its backward compatibility.The new rockets are designed to be fired from the existing fleet of Pinaka launchers already in service with the Army’s artillery regiments.
This interoperability ensures that the force can upgrade its firepower by procuring new ammunition without the need for expensive new launch platforms.
This approach not only ensures faster induction but also allows for a cost-effective scaling of capabilities across existing units.
Production and Industrial Ecosystem
To meet the anticipated high demand, the programme has engaged two designated Defence Corridor Production Partners (DCPPs).This dual-vendor strategy, likely involving major private sector players such as Solar Industries and Munitions India Limited, is designed to ensure supply chain resilience.
Once orders are formally placed, these partners are expected to ramp up manufacturing capacity within 18 to 24 months, ensuring that the Indian Army receives timely deliveries of the new ammunition.
Global Context and Future Outlook
The Pinaka system has already garnered international attention, with successful exports to Armenia demonstrating the maturity of Indian defence technology.The development of the 120 km Mk3 is seen as a precursor to even longer-range systems, with the DRDO reportedly conceptualising a future Mk4 variant capable of striking targets at 300 km.
