In a significant milestone for India’s defense capabilities, the Indian Army has successfully carried out field trials of the indigenously developed man-portable anti-tank guided missile (MPATGM) system, paving the way for its induction into the armed forces.
The MPATGM, designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), underwent a series of rigorous tests and evaluations, with the latest trials conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Range on April 13.
According to the defence ministry, the trials were a resounding success, with the missile’s performance and warhead capabilities proving remarkable. The system’s tandem warhead design was found capable of penetrating and defeating modern, armor-protected main battle tanks, a crucial capability for infantry forces.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the DRDO and the Indian Army for the successful trials, terming it an important step towards achieving self-reliance in advanced defense technology development.
The MPATGM system, comprising the missile, launchers, target acquisition device, and a fire control unit, has been extensively field-evaluated in various flight configurations, with the aim of establishing its technological superiority and meeting the Army’s operational requirements.
“The dual-mode seeker functionality is a great value addition to the missile capability for tank warfare,” the ministry said, highlighting the system’s ability to operate effectively in both day and night conditions.
DRDO Chairman Samir V. Kamat congratulated the teams involved in the successful trials, underscoring the significance of indigenously developed defense capabilities.
The completion of the developmental trials and the system’s readiness for final user evaluation trials marks a significant milestone for the Indian defense industry. The induction of the MPATGM into the Indian Army’s arsenal will bolster the country’s self-reliance in critical defense systems and enhance the capabilities of infantry forces in countering modern armored threats.
As India continues to prioritize the development of indigenous defense technologies, the successful MPATGM trials serve as a testament to the nation’s growing prowess in the field of military innovation and its commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of its armed forces.
