The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major milestone on Sunday. It successfully flight-tested the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) at the KK Ranges in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. This test involved a moving target and demonstrated the missile's advanced capabilities.
Advanced Indigenous Technologies
The MPATGM represents a leap in India's defense technology. It is a third-generation 'fire and forget' missile with top attack capability. This means soldiers can launch it and immediately seek cover, as the missile guides itself to the target.
The missile incorporates several key indigenous components developed by DRDO laboratories across India:
- Imaging Infrared (IIR) Seeker: This homing device tracks targets using infrared images. It operates effectively during both day and night, providing round-the-clock combat readiness.
- All-Electric Control Actuation System: This system manages the missile's flight controls without relying on hydraulic mechanisms, enhancing reliability.
- Tandem Warhead: Designed with dual charges, this warhead can penetrate the layered armor of modern main battle tanks, ensuring high lethality.
- Fire Control System: This onboard computer calculates targeting, aiming, and firing parameters to ensure accuracy.
Collaborative Development Effort
Multiple DRDO facilities contributed to this project. The Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad, the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory in Chandigarh, the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory in Pune, and the Instruments Research and Development Establishment in Dehradun all played crucial roles. The Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur developed a Thermal Target System to simulate enemy tanks during testing.
Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited serve as the Development-Cum-Production Partners for this weapon system. This collaboration ensures that the missile can be manufactured efficiently within India.
Strategic Importance and Deployment
Anti-tank missiles hold critical strategic value on modern battlefields. Since World War I, the race between armor penetration and armor protection has intensified. The Indian Army previously relied on imported anti-tank guided missiles. The MPATGM project is part of DRDO's broader Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, aiming to achieve self-reliance.
The missile features miniaturized infrared imaging seekers and advanced avionics for precise control and guidance. It offers flexible deployment options. Soldiers can launch it from a simple tripod or from a Military Vehicle Launcher, providing tactical versatility in various combat scenarios.
A final deliverable configuration of the MPATGM was tested in 2022. Sunday's successful test further validates its readiness and technological maturity. This development strengthens India's defense infrastructure and reduces dependency on foreign weapon systems.
