New Delhi/IBNS: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the flight tests of the guided Pinaka weapon system as part of Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. 

The flight tests have been conducted in three phases at different field firing ranges.

During these tests, the PSQR parameters viz., ranging, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire for multiple target engagement in a salvo mode have been assessed by extensive testing of rockets, an official statement from the Ministry of Defence stated.

Twelve rockets from each production agency from two in-service Pinaka launchers upgraded by the launcher production agencies have been tested.

The precision strike variant for Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System is an indigenous weapon system designed and developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded DRDO and the Indian Army for the successful PSQR Validation Trials of the system and stated that the induction of this system will boost the artillery firepower.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat said the rocket system has completed all pre-requisite flight trials before induction into the Indian Army.

The Pinaka system, considered on par with America's HIMARS system, has been India's first major defence export as conflict-hit Armenia had placed the first order.