DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous Man-Portable Anti-Tank Missile

India has achieved another milestone in indigenous defence capability with the successful flight test of a third-generation Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM). The trial, conducted against a moving target, reinforces India’s push towards self-reliance in advanced battlefield weapon systems and strengthens the Indian Army’s future anti-armour capabilities.

Successful test at KK Ranges in Maharashtra

The Defence Research and Development Organisation carried out the test on January 11 at the KK Ranges in Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra. The missile demonstrated its top-attack capability by accurately engaging a moving armoured target. The trial was conducted by DRDO’s Defence Research and Development Laboratory, Hyderabad, under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence.

Advanced third-generation ‘fire-and-forget’ technology

The MPATGM is a third-generation fire-and-forget missile, meaning it does not require guidance after launch. It is equipped with an Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker, enabling precision targeting in both day and night combat conditions. The missile also features an all-electric control actuation system, a high-performance fire control system, a tandem warhead designed to defeat modern main battle tanks, and an advanced propulsion system. These technologies allow the missile to engage targets in complex battlefield environments with high accuracy.

Indigenous development across DRDO laboratories

Multiple DRDO laboratories contributed to the development of the weapon system, including Research Centre Imarat, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Instruments Research and Development Establishment. The thermal target system used during the test was developed by Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur, to realistically simulate an enemy tank. The missile can be launched from a tripod or integrated onto a military vehicle, enhancing its operational flexibility.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• MPATGM is a third-generation fire-and-forget anti-tank missile.
• Top-attack capability targets the weaker upper armour of tanks.
• IIR seekers enable day and night operational capability.
• DRDO develops indigenous missile systems under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Path towards induction and Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited are the development-cum-production partners for the MPATGM. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the successful test as a major boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing. DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat said the trial brings the missile closer to induction into the Indian Army, enhancing its ability to counter armoured threats on future battlefields.