Published on: April 15, 2024

MAN PORTABLE ANTI-TANK GUIDED MISSILE (MPATGM)

MAN PORTABLE ANTI-TANK GUIDED MISSILE (MPATGM)

NEWS – India has successfully conducted the final developmental trials of third generation Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) paving the way for its early induction in the armed forces.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Development and Firing Trials
    • The short-range missile, designed and developed by DRDO, underwent firing trials at the Pokhran field firing range in Rajasthan.
    • Equipped with day/night and top attack capability, the missile demonstrated remarkable performance during warhead flight trials.
  • Technological Advancements
    • Penetration trials of the tandem warhead system were successful, proving its capability to defeat modern armored main battle tanks.
    • The dual-mode seeker functionality adds value to the missile’s capability for tank warfare.
  • Operational Readiness
    • The Ministry of Defence confirmed the conclusion of technology development and successful demonstration, paving the way for final user evaluation trials before induction into the Indian Army.
  • Replacement of Existing Systems
    • The MPATGM, once inducted, will replace older anti-tank guided missiles like Milan and Konkur, enhancing India’s defense capabilities.
    • Its lightweight and portability make it suitable for battlefield requirements.
  • Strategic Significance
    • The success of the MPATGM is a significant achievement for the Make-in-India initiative and aligns with the armed forces’ demand for advanced, portable weapon systems.
    • With a strike range of over 2.5 km and day/night operability, the missile meets critical battlefield needs
  • Trials of MPATGM Weapon System
    • DRDO and the Indian Army conducted successful trials of the Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) Weapon System at PFFR in Rajasthan.
    • The system comprises the MPATGM, Man Portable Launcher, Target Acquisition System (TAS), and Fire Control Unit (FCU).