Pinaka, Mark 2 rockets test fired

BALASORE (ODISHA): For the second time in two days, India's indigenously developed advanced version of Pinaka, Mark-2 rockets were successfully test fired from a multi-barrel rocket launcher from a defence base at Chandipur, about 15 km from here.

The tests were conducted from the Proof and Experimental Establishment ( PXE) at Chandipur firing range No 2, defence sources said.

Chandipur PXE director Appavu Raj told PTI, "A total six rounds, three yesterday and three today, of the Mark-2 version of Pinaka rockets with more than a 60 km range were successfully tested."

Defence sources said, "Pune-based Armament Research and Development Establishment of DRDO personnel with logistic support of PXE, conducted the tests."

Pinaka, the unguided rocket system meant to neutralise large areas with rapid salvos and which has undergone several tough tests since 1995, was inducted into the armed forces and the present trials were conducted with some improvements in the system, the sources said.

The advanced version Mark-II rockets with a range of more than 60 km, capable of acting as a force-multiplier, was developed to supplement artillery guns, the sources said.

The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of the system gave an edge to the Army during a low-intensity conflict situation, they said.

The system's capability to incorporate several types of warheads made it deadly for the enemy as it could even destroy solid structures and bunkers.

The Pinaka system with a battery of six launchers could fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds and could neutralise a target area of 3.9 sq km.