The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight-test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, on July 8, 2026. The rocket was tested for a user-defined minimum range of 60 km, demonstrating all in-flight manoeuvres as planned and impacting the target with textbook precision, exactly following the predicted trajectory, according to defence officials.
Precision and Performance
All deployed range instruments tracked the flight throughout its trajectory, confirming the rocket's accuracy. The Pinaka LRGR is designed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in association with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), with support from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI).
Versatile Launch Capability
The flight trial was coordinated by ITR and the Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE). The rocket was launched from the in-service Pinaka launcher, demonstrating its versatility and providing launch capability for Pinaka variants of different ranges from the same launcher, the defence ministry stated.
Government and Leadership Praise
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO, the Indian Army, and the industry on the successful flight test, describing it as a major milestone in indigenous design and development capability for long-range guided rockets. Defence Secretary and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO, Rajesh Kumar Singh, closely monitored the trials and complimented all teams associated with the successful test, the ministry added.
