DRDO MPATGM Trial Strengthens India’s Indigenous Anti-Tank Capability

India Successfully Tests Indigenous Third-Generation MPATGM Against Moving Target

India has recorded a significant advance in indigenous defence technology with the successful flight test of a third-generation Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) . Conducted against a moving target, the test underlines India’s steady progress towards self-reliance in advanced battlefield weapon systems and strengthens the Indian Army’s future anti-armour combat readiness.

Successful Trial at KK Ranges, Maharashtra

The test was carried out on January 11 at the KK Ranges in Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra, by the Defence Research and Development Organisation . The missile accurately engaged a moving armoured target, validating its top-attack capability , which is designed to strike the comparatively weaker upper armour of modern tanks.

The trial was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory , Hyderabad, under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence .

Advanced Third-Generation ‘Fire-and-Forget’ Missile

MPATGM belongs to the third-generation ‘fire-and-forget’ class of anti-tank missiles, allowing the operator to disengage immediately after launch. It is fitted with an Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker , enabling high-precision targeting during both day and night operations.

Key features include:

• Top-attack mode for defeating main battle tanks

• Tandem warhead capable of neutralising reactive armour

• All-electric control actuation system

• Advanced fire control system and propulsion unit

These technologies enable the missile to operate effectively in complex and contested battlefield environments.

Collaborative Indigenous Development

The MPATGM programme represents coordinated indigenous development across multiple DRDO laboratories. Key contributors include:

• Research Centre Imarat

• Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory

• High Energy Materials Research Laboratory

• Instruments Research and Development Establishment

The thermal target used in the test was developed by Defence Laboratory Jodhpur to realistically simulate enemy armoured platforms. The missile can be fired from a tripod-mounted launcher or integrated onto military vehicles, providing operational flexibility.

Towards Induction and Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Public sector defence firms 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 step forward for Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing. DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat stated that the trial brings the missile closer to induction into the Indian Army, significantly enhancing its ability to counter armoured threats.

Key Exam-Focused Points

• MPATGM is a third-generation fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile.