BENGALURU — Bengaluru-based defence technology startup Vishwatronix has developed Pinaka, a compact 5-kilogram remote weapon station (RWS) designed primarily for integration with quadruped robots, commonly known as robot dogs.
Compact remote weapon station
The Pinaka RWS provides 360-degree rotation and can be fitted with firearms such as the IWI Tavor bullpup rifle. Its weapon mount has an elevation range from 33 degrees downward to 55 degrees upward, allowing the system to operate across uneven and hilly terrain.
The lightweight design is intended for robotic platforms where size and weight are important considerations.
Human-controlled operation
Pinaka is designed to keep a human operator in control of the weapon. The system is not fully autonomous, and the final decision to fire remains with the soldier.
The operator controls the station remotely using a joystick and receives a live video feed from integrated day and night vision sights. Vishwatronix has also developed a portable command-and-control station for remote operation.
Stabilization and AI-assisted tracking
To maintain weapon accuracy while the robotic platform is walking or running, Pinaka uses IMU motion sensors and high-resolution encoders to stabilize the weapon.
The system also includes a laser rangefinder capable of measuring distances up to 1 kilometre. The range information is used to calculate the required firing angle.
An AI-assisted target-tracking feature can automatically keep the weapon aimed at a moving target after the operator selects it on the video feed. This reduces the need for the soldier to manually track the target continuously with the joystick.
Modular design
Although initially highlighted for quadruped robots, Pinaka has a modular design that allows it to be integrated with different robotic and unmanned platforms. These include unmanned boats, drones and ground vehicles.
Vishwatronix has also successfully integrated and tested a remote weapon mount on the Mahindra Armado, an indigenous light armoured vehicle. The system allows vehicle crews to operate the weapon remotely without stepping outside the protection of the vehicle.
Initial production for Indian Army
Vishwatronix has tested the Pinaka RWS across multiple environments and is currently manufacturing an initial batch of five systems for the Indian Army.
The company has also indicated plans to expand the system for medium machine guns.
Vishwatronix works in defence research and development, defence electronics, AI, robotics, embedded systems, UAVs and autonomous systems. Development of the Pinaka system was reported by Indian defence news accounts in August 2026, followed by further attention in September 2026 through updates detailing the 5-kilogram remote weapon station for quadruped robots.
——— End of Article ———
