India has achieved a major milestone in its defence and precision strike capabilities with the successful maiden flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120). Conducted on December 29, 2025, at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha, the test marks a significant step forward in India’s artillery modernization and long-range precision strike capability. The rocket demonstrated its maximum range of 120 kilometres while executing all in-flight manoeuvres as planned, impacting the target with textbook precision, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The flight test of the Pinaka LRGR 120 was conducted from the in-service Pinaka launcher, underscoring the versatility of the system and its ability to launch multiple variants from the same platform. All range instruments tracked the rocket throughout its trajectory, confirming the success of the mission. This development highlights India’s growing capabilities in guided artillery systems, providing the Armed Forces with enhanced precision, range, and tactical flexibility.

The rocket was developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), with additional support from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and the Research Centre Imarat (RCI). The test was coordinated by the ITR and the Proof and Experimental Establishment, ensuring rigorous monitoring and validation of the rocket’s performance parameters.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and other stakeholders for this achievement, calling the successful design and development of long-range guided rockets a game-changer for India’s Armed Forces. Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat also witnessed the trial, commending the teams for accomplishing the mission objectives and demonstrating India’s growing self-reliance in advanced defence technology.

On the same day, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Rajnath Singh, approved a major procurement plan worth approximately Rs 79,000 crore, covering critical systems for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. This package of acquisitions represents a significant boost to India’s defence preparedness, integrating cutting-edge technology and modernisation across all three services.

For the Indian Army, the DAC cleared the purchase of Loiter Munition Systems, Low-Level Lightweight Radars, Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for the Pinaka system, and the upgraded Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System Mk II. These systems will enhance precision strike capabilities, detection of small and low-flying UAVs, and the accuracy of Pinaka rockets, allowing high-value targets to be neutralized effectively in tactical zones. The loiter munitions will provide the Army with the ability to engage strategic targets with pinpoint accuracy, while the advanced radars improve situational awareness against aerial threats.

The Indian Navy secured approvals for Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR), Manpack systems, and the leasing of High Altitude Long Range Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (HALE RPAS). The BP tugs will enhance naval manoeuvring capabilities, particularly in constrained waters, while the HF SDR will strengthen long-range secure communication. The HALE RPAS will provide persistent maritime surveillance, bolstering India’s situational awareness and security across the Indian Ocean Region.

The Indian Air Force will receive the Automatic Take-off Landing Recording System, Astra Mk II missiles, Full Mission Simulator for Tejas fighter jets, and SPICE 1000 Long Range Guidance Kits. The automatic recording system addresses safety concerns by generating high-definition all-weather recordings of take-offs and landings. The Astra Mk II missile extends engagement range against enemy aircraft, while the Full Mission Simulator improves pilot training efficiency. The SPICE 1000 kit further enhances precision strike capability over extended ranges, complementing India’s strategic deterrence posture.

The maiden flight test of the Pinaka LRGR 120 demonstrates India’s commitment to indigenisation and defence modernization, integrating advanced technologies developed domestically by DRDO laboratories. The successful demonstration validates the Pinaka system’s versatility, range, and accuracy, reinforcing India’s position as a technologically advanced defence force in the region. By achieving precision strike at long ranges, the system significantly enhances operational flexibility for the Army, enabling rapid and precise targeting of high-value enemy positions.

This milestone is especially significant in the context of India’s ongoing efforts to modernise its artillery and missile inventory. The Pinaka system, now equipped with guided rocket capability, provides the Armed Forces with a transformative tool for both defensive and offensive operations. It bridges the gap between traditional artillery and modern missile systems, offering a cost-effective, accurate, and responsive strike solution.

In conclusion, the successful maiden flight of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120), combined with the Rs 79,000 crore defence procurement approvals, marks a pivotal moment in India’s military modernization journey. The integration of advanced artillery, missile, radar, and drone detection systems enhances operational readiness and strengthens India’s strategic deterrence. With DRDO and allied laboratories achieving this milestone, India has not only demonstrated technological excellence but has also ensured that its Armed Forces are equipped with state-of-the-art tools for modern warfare, positioning the nation to respond effectively to evolving security challenges.

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