Social users have shared a claim regarding recent tests conducted by DRDO in India. An account named Afghanistan Correspondence has shared a claim stating, “India’s Pinaka MLRS test failed, resulting in the death of all seven crew members operating the system.”
These claims correspond to the recent Missile Tests, which DRDO conducted.
Fact Check
The DFRAC team investigated the viral claim by running a Keyword Search on Google. During the process, we found multiple media reports that informed about successful tests of the Pinaki MLRS Test by DRDO.
A media report by The Hindu dated 14 November 2024, stated, “The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday (November 14, 2024) announced the successful completion of flight tests of guided Pinaka multi-barrel rocket (MBRL) system as part of Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements validation trials, paving the way for its induction. The upgraded Pinaka system now boasts an enhanced range of over 75 km. “
Another report by the Times of India (TOI) dated 15 November 2024, informed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the successful trials highlighting how this system will enhance the Armed Forces’ artillery capabilities. Samir V Kamat, DRDO chairman, confirmed the system’s readiness for army induction after completing all required flight trials.
Additionally, we checked for the official account of DRDO. The X (@DRDO_India) account also confirmed the success of the tests.
Conclusion
The viral claim that the Pinaka MLRS test failed, resulting in the death of seven crew members, is entirely fake. The tests were conducted successfully.
DFRAC Analysis: Fake
