Article Posted on : - Dec 09, 2011

A file photo of 'Pinaka' multi-barrel rocket launcher weapon system.

BALASORE (PTI): A demonstration trial of India's indigenously developed multi-barrel rocket launcher weapon system, 'Pinaka' was conducted in presence of personnel from the Indian Army and scientists at a defence base, about 15 km from here.

"Four rounds of test-firing were conducted during the trial," defence sources said.

'Pinaka', an unguided rocket system and an area weapon system aimed at supplementing the existing artillery guns at a range beyond 30 km, is capable of acting as a force-multiplier, they said.

The demonstration of 'Pinaka', which has undergone several tough tests since 1995 and is in an advance stage of development, took place at Chandipur-on-sea at the Proof Experimental Establishment by Army and scientists from Defence Research and Development Organisation, the sources said.

It was meant to neutralise a large geographical area with a rapid salvo of rockets. With a strike range of 40 km, 'Pinaka' could fire a salvo of 12 rockets in 44 seconds, they said. One salvo each of 12 rockets from a battery of six launchers could neutralise a target area of 3.9 sq km at a time, they said. Its quick reaction time, accuracy and high rate of fire gave an edge to the armed forces during low-intensity warlike situations, the sources said.

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