Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM)
Why in news?
India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently conducted successful flight tests of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), a third-generation fire-and-forget system with top-attack capability against moving targets.Γ’β¬βΉ
About MPATGM
The Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) is India’s indigenously developed third-generation, fire-and-forget missile designed to defeat modern armored threats with top-attack capability. Recently tested successfully by DRDO, it is now close to induction into the Indian Army.
Key Features of MPATGM
- Type: Third-generation, fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile
- Origin: India, developed by DRDO
- Manufacturer: Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) support
- Weight: Missile – 14.5 kg; Command Launch Unit (CLU) – 14.25 kg
- Range: 200 m – 4,000 m
- Guidance System: Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker with advanced AI-based image processing
- Warhead: Tandem-charge HEAT capable of penetrating 660 mm RHA + ERA or 710 mm RHA
- Launch Platforms: Tripod or military vehicle launcher
- Engine: Dual-thrust rocket with solid fuel
- Capability: Top-attack mode to destroy heavily armored tanks and direct-attack mode for lighter targets
Strategic Importance
- Self-reliance: MPATGM is part of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reducing dependence on foreign imports.
- Army Induction: Successful trials pave the way for deployment in infantry units, enhancing India’s anti-armor capabilities.
- Cost Advantage: Being indigenously produced, MPATGM is expected to be more affordable compared to imported systems like Javelin or Spike.
Download Pdf