MLRS
Pinaka MBRL
The Pinaka is an Indian 214 mm multi-barrel rocket launcher developed by DRDO, in service since the 2000s. Its 12-rocket launcher fires up to 90 km in the Pinaka-ER version, and Armenia is the first confirmed export user.
India|DRDO & Larsen & Toubro & Tata Advanced Systems & Solar IndustriesWhat Is the Pinaka MBRL? Overview, History and Development
Developed by DRDO’s ARDE in Pune and named after the bow of Lord Shiva, the Pinaka began in the late 1980s, with first trials in 1995 and first operational use in the 1999 Kargil conflict. A Tatra 8×8 truck built by BEML carries 12 rockets, fired in about 44 seconds, and a battery of six launchers fires 72 rockets in that time. Rockets include the Mk-I at about 37.5 km, Mk-II at about 60 km, guided Pinaka at about 75 km and Pinaka-ER at about 90 km.
The Indian Army has raised multiple regiments, with Solar Industries and Munitions India producing the rockets. Armenia ordered about four batteries in a reported US$250 million contract in 2022 and took first delivery in 2024. France is reported to be evaluating the system, and Indonesia and Nigeria have shown interest. The Pinaka is seen as a cheaper domestic alternative to HIMARS-class systems, and longer-range LRGR and Mk-IV rockets are in development.
Pinaka MBRL Specifications: Weight, Armament, Armor and Mobility
Pinaka MBRL Variants and Versions Compared
The Pinaka Mk-I is the original rocket with a range of about 37.5 km, later extended to about 45 km.
The Pinaka Mk-II has a range of about 60 km, with a guided version reaching about 75 km.
The Pinaka-ER is the extended-range version reaching about 90 km.
Which Countries Use the Pinaka MBRL? Operators and Users
India
ArmeniaPinaka MBRL FAQ: Price, Range, Operators and Most Asked Questions
What is the range of the Pinaka?
The Pinaka has a range of 37-90 km depending on the rocket. The Mk-I reaches about 37.5 km, the Mk-II about 60 km and the Pinaka-ER about 90 km.
How much does a Pinaka launcher cost?
The Pinaka launcher costs about US$1-2 million per launcher according to reported Indian procurement, with rockets at a few tens of thousands of dollars each as an estimate.
Which countries have bought the Pinaka?
The Pinaka is used by India and Armenia, which is the first confirmed export user. Armenia ordered about four batteries in a contract reported at US$250 million in 2022, with first delivery in 2024.
Pinaka vs HIMARS: which is better?
The Pinaka fires 12 rockets in about 44 seconds at a lower price, while HIMARS has a faster reload and a wider range of precision munitions. The Pinaka is a cheaper, locally produced alternative for India.
Is the Pinaka used by Arab countries?
No Arab country is confirmed to operate the Pinaka. The system has been displayed at Gulf expos such as IDEX but not exported there.
How many rockets does the Pinaka fire?
The Pinaka launcher fires 12 rockets in about 44 seconds. A battery of six launchers fires 72 rockets in the same time.
