India on Monday successfully carried out the first flight test of the Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120), marking a key milestone in the country’s defence programme. The test was conducted at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, and confirmed the rocket’s extended range and accuracy.
The successful launch underlined India’s growing focus on indigenous weapons development and enhanced long-range firepower for the armed forces.
Rocket Achieves Full 120 km Range with High Accuracy
The defence ministry said the rocket was tested for its maximum range of 120 km and performed all planned manoeuvres during the flight. “The rocket was tested for its maximum range of 120 km, demonstrating all in-flight manoeuvres as planned. The LRGR impacted on the target with textbook precision,” the ministry said in a statement.
The maiden flight test of Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120) was conducted successfully at ITR, Chandipur today.
Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh has congratulated @DRDO_India and other stakeholders on this achievement. pic.twitter.com/SAIL8jj8KI
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) December 29, 2025
Tracking systems followed the rocket throughout its flight path and confirmed accurate target engagement.
Fired from In-Service Pinaka Launcher
The LRGR 120 was launched from an in-service Pinaka multiple launch rocket system, proving that the same launcher can fire rockets of different ranges. This feature adds flexibility to battlefield operations and allows the Army to switch between variants without changing equipment.
The successful test demonstrated the system’s readiness for operational use and its compatibility with existing artillery platforms.
DRDO’s Indigenous Effort
The long-range guided rocket was designed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory. Other DRDO laboratories also supported the development process.
This achievement reflects the strength of India’s domestic defence research ecosystem and its ability to deliver advanced weapon systems using home-grown technology.
Boost for Armed Forces Capability
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO teams for the successful test. He said the development of long-range guided rockets would significantly enhance the operational capability of the armed forces and improve precision strike options.
The test comes on the same day the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) granted initial approval for defence purchases worth around ₹79,000 crore, which include long-range guided rocket ammunition for the Pinaka system.
Strategic Importance of Pinaka LRGR
The Pinaka LRGR bridges the gap between conventional artillery and missile systems. It offers a longer range, high accuracy, and rapid deployment at a lower cost compared to traditional missiles. Military experts say such systems are crucial for modern warfare, especially in high-intensity conflict scenarios.
Further evaluation trials may follow before the system is inducted into service. Once deployed, the Pinaka LRGR 120 is expected to significantly strengthen India’s artillery firepower and reinforce the country’s defence preparedness.
