India has successfully tested the long range guided version of the Pinaka rocket system, marking a significant step in its evolution from an area saturation weapon to a precision strike platform. Often referred to as 'baby BrahMos', the system is being compared to the BrahMos cruise missile for its impact, though not for its range or speed. The comparison reflects its growing role in strengthening India’s conventional deterrence capabilities.

Developed through a public private partnership, Pinaka is designed to deliver a high volume of fire quickly against critical targets. Military leadership has emphasised that affordable and scalable weapons are essential for sustaining operations during prolonged, high intensity conflicts. This signals a doctrinal shift where quantity and domestic production capacity are regaining strategic importance.

A parliamentary defence panel has supported this approach, urging greater indigenous manufacturing to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers during wartime. Recent global conflicts have highlighted the importance of cost effective systems, as relatively inexpensive weapons have inflicted heavy damage on costly military platforms.

Pinaka fits into this new economic reality of warfare by offering a system that can be produced in large numbers and deployed repeatedly. With Armenia already procuring the system and France showing interest, exports are expected to strengthen production lines and enhance India’s overall war readiness.