DRDO Successfully Tests Long-Range Guided Pinaka Rocket

New Delhi, July 9, 2026 India has taken another significant step towards strengthening its indigenous defence capabilities with the successful flight test of the Long-Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) Pinaka. Conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the trial showcased the country's growing expertise in developing precision-guided long-range weapon systems for the armed forces. The successful flight test was carried out on July 8, 2026, at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. During the trial, the LRGR Pinaka met the user-defined minimum strike range requirement of 60 kilometres and accurately hit its pre-designated target. The rocket precisely followed its planned flight path throughout the mission, while all tracking systems deployed at the range successfully monitored its performance from launch to impact. The Long-Range Guided Pinaka was designed and developed by DRDO's Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), with significant contributions from the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI). The flight test was jointly coordinated by the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, and the Proof and Experimental Establishment. The rocket was launched from the Pinaka launcher already in service with the Indian Army, demonstrating that the same launcher can effectively fire Pinaka rockets with different operational ranges. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Army, and all defence industry partners on the successful flight test. He described it as a significant achievement towards India's indigenous design and development capabilities in long-range guided rockets. Defence Secretary, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D, and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh monitored the trials and appreciated the efforts of all scientists and teams involved, marking another milestone in India's journey towards self-reliance in advanced defence technology.