DRDO has accelerated preparations for imminent flight trials of the 120 km-range Pinaka Mk-III rocket system, building on the Guided Pinaka’s proven success, as the Indian Army advances a ₹2,500 crore ($300M) fast-track procurement proposal for Defence Acquisition Council approval announced December 12, 2025. Developed by ARDE Pune with partners like Solar Industries, Munitions India, BDL, and L&T, the 300mm-caliber Mk-III promises <10m CEP precision via INS/GPS guidance and 250kg warheads, enabling salvo fire of 12 rockets in 44 seconds to saturate 1km x 800m areas—doubling Mk-II's 75-90km reach post-Operation Sindoor lessons. Key dates include user trials slated for late 2025 and potential 2028 induction, prioritizing indigenous firepower over foreign systems like Russia's Smerch. From India's strategic lens, this bolsters border deterrence against China and Pakistan, targeting deep enemy assets in Ladakh or along the LoC without escalation, enhancing artillery dominance in high-altitude conflicts.