New Delhi: In a major milestone for India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully flight-tested the third-generation Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) with top attack capability against a moving target.
The MPATGM is a third-generation, fire-and-forget missile system designed to neutralise modern enemy armoured platforms. Equipped with a top attack capability, the missile strikes targets from above, where armoured vehicles are most vulnerable.
The missile uses a state-of-the-art Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker, enabling precise target acquisition and engagement in both day and night combat conditions.
Indigenous Technologies Powering the Missile
The indigenously developed MPATGM integrates several advanced technologies developed by DRDO laboratories across the country. These include an all-electric control actuation system, an advanced fire control system, a tandem warhead, a robust propulsion system, and a high-performance sighting system.
Key contributing laboratories include Research Centre Imarat (Hyderabad), Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (Chandigarh), High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (Pune), and Instruments Research & Development Establishment (Dehradun).
Successful Engagement of Moving Target
To simulate a realistic battlefield scenario, a thermal target system developed by Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur, was used to replicate a moving tank. The missile successfully tracked and destroyed the target, validating its accuracy and operational reliability.
The tandem warhead fitted on the MPATGM is capable of defeating modern main battle tanks equipped with explosive reactive armour.
Flexible Launch Options
The missile system is designed for operational flexibility and can be launched either from a tripod-based ground launcher or a military vehicle-mounted launcher. This versatility enhances its deployment across varied combat environments.
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) are the Development-cum-Production Partners for the MPATGM, reinforcing India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Leadership Commends DRDO Team
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, its industry partners, and all stakeholders involved in the successful test. He described the achievement as a significant step towards strengthening India’s defence preparedness under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, also lauded the team and confirmed that the successful trial paves the way for the missile’s induction into the Indian Army.
Boost to India’s Defence Self-Reliance
The successful flight-test of the MPATGM reinforces India’s growing capabilities in designing and developing advanced weapon systems. It is expected to significantly enhance the anti-armour firepower of the Indian Army.
With this achievement, DRDO has once again demonstrated its commitment to delivering cutting-edge, indigenous defence technologies aligned with national security objectives.