January 28, 2015: In service and well-respected as a successful and potent indigenous weapon, the new and improved Pinaka Mk.II rocket, developed by the DRDO's Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, was successfully test fired last month at the Proof and Experimental Establishment (PXE) in Odisha last month. Rockets were fired for different ranges covering 20 km to 60 km. The Pinaka Mk.II is an advanced version of the unguided Pinaka multibarrel rocket system where the firing range has been enhanced to 60+ km from the existing 38 km. The rocket incorporates a high performance solid rocket propulsion system and advanced stabiliser system with six flat fin configuration developed by ARDE. The energetic propellant has been developed by High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune. Pinaka Mk.II uses in-service warheads and fuzes and existing ground systems with minor modifications in Launcher, Loader Cum Replenishment (LCR) vehicle, Replenishment vehicle (RV) and Battery Command Post. "Demonstration of the strike capability of Pinaka Mk.II rocket beyond 60 km is a landmark in the field of unguided rocket artillery," says the DRDO. The Indian Army, which already operates Pinaka rocket regiments, has expressed deep interest in the enhanced range and accuracy Pinaka Mk.II and has thrown its full weight behind the indigenous programme.