India Boosts Strike Capability with Successful Test of Long-Range Guided Pinaka

On Monday, December 29, the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR-120) completed its first flight test, marking a significant advancement in India's long-range artillery and precision strike capabilities. The test was carried out at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur town in the Odisha district of Balasore.

The rocket's maximum range of 120 kilometers was tested, and it performed all of the scheduled in-flight maneuvers. According to the defense ministry, the LRGR hit the target with textbook accuracy.

"The maiden flight test of Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120) was conducted successfully at Integrated Test Range, Chandipur today," the ministry said.

The entire flight's trajectory was monitored by all of the deployed range instruments. According to officials, the LRGR was launched from an operational Pinaka launcher, showcasing its adaptability and offering the ability to launch Pinaka variants with varying ranges from the same launcher.

According to the ministry, the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, the Research Center Imarat, and the Armament Research and Development Establishment, in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, designed this rocket. Proof and Experimental Establishment, and ITR oversaw the flight trial.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and other relevant parties have received congratulations from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on this accomplishment. He described the successful design and development of long-range guided rockets as a "game-changer" that will increase the Armed Forces' capabilities. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of the DRDO and Secretary of the Department of Defense R&D, attended the trial and commended each team for achieving the mission's goals.

Earlier in the day, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Singh, approved a major round of military purchases worth about Rs 79,000 crore. The meeting on December 29, 2025, cleared the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various systems for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, significantly boosting India's defense preparedness.

For the Indian Army, the council approved the purchase of Loiter Munition Systems, Low Level Light Weight Radars, Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for the Pinaka system, and the upgraded Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System Mk II. The Loiter Munition will allow for precision strikes on tactical targets. The lightweight radars will improve the detection of small and low-flying unmanned aerial systems. The longer-range rockets will enhance the Pinaka's accuracy for high-value targets, and the upgraded drone detection system will protect critical assets in tactical areas and inland.

The Indian Navy received approval for Bollard Pull Tugs, High Frequency Software Defined Radios, Manpack systems, and leasing of the High Altitude Long Range Remotely Piloted Aircraft System. The BP Tugs will help ships and submarines during berthing and maneuvering in restricted waters. The HF SDR is expected to improve long-range secure communication during boarding and landing missions. The HALE RPAS will provide ongoing surveillance and enhance maritime domain awareness across the Indian Ocean Region.

For the Indian Air Force, the council approved the purchase of the Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System, Astra Mk II missiles, a Full Mission Simulator, and SPICE 1000 Long Range Guidance Kits. The automatic recording system will fill safety gaps by creating high-definition all-weather recordings of take-offs and landings. The Astra Mk II missile will increase the engagement range against enemy aircraft. The Full Mission Simulator for the Tejas fighter will enhance pilot training safely and cost-effectively, while the SPICE 1000 kit will broaden long-range precision strike options.

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