Watch: DRDO’s New Pinaka Rocket Hits 120-km Target In First-Ever Flight Test

Last Updated:December 29, 2025, 23:27 IST

The long-range guided rocket has been developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment, working closely with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory.

India on Monday successfully tested a new long-range guided version of the Pinaka rocket system, marking a key milestone in country’s defence research programme. The test was carried out by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha.

The rocket, LRGR 120, was tested at its full range of 120 kilometres. According to the officials, the missile followed its planned flight path, performed all required manoeuvres in the air, and struck the designated target with high accuracy.

Engineers tracking the launch confirmed that all range instruments remained locked on to the rocket from lift-off to impact, allowing detailed monitoring of its performance throughout the flight.

The long-range guided rocket has been developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment, working closely with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory. Additional technical support came from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory and Research Centre Imarat, highlighting a coordinated effort across multiple DRDO centres.

The test launch was conducted using an operational Pinaka launcher already in service with the armed forces. Officials said this demonstrated the launcher’s ability to fire different Pinaka variants without modification, making it more flexible for battlefield use. The trial was jointly managed by the Integrated Test Range and the Proof & Experimental Establishment.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also congratulated the DRDO team and described the development of long-range guided rockets as a “game changer” that will significantly boost the operational strength of the armed forces.

DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development, Samir V Kamat, who was present at the test site, hailed the scientists and engineers involved for meeting all mission objectives during the maiden trial.

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