DRDO Marks Key Success with MPATGM Test, Advancing Army Integration

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

On Sunday, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) reached a pivotal milestone, successfully test-firing the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) against a mobile target. The trial, held at the Kharjuna Khare (KK) Ranges in Maharashtra's Ahilya Nagar district, is a significant advancement for the missile's potential inclusion in the Indian Army.

DRDO Chairman and Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, noted that the missile's performance during the trial met expectations. The successful engagement and destruction of the target confirmed the missile's reliability and accuracy, bringing the MPATGM closer to operational status within the Army's arsenal.

The MPATGM is a third-generation fire-and-forget missile entirely developed in India. It features advanced indigenous technologies such as an Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker, an all-electric control actuation system, a modern fire control system, a tandem warhead, a robust propulsion system, and a high-performance sighting system. These critical systems were developed by various DRDO laboratories, including Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory in Chandigarh, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory in Pune, and Instruments Research and Development Establishment in Dehradun.

To ensure a realistic environment for the test, the Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur created a Thermal Target System designed to mimic enemy tanks. According to the official statement, the missile's warhead is capable of neutralizing modern main battle tanks, even those equipped with advanced protection features. The MPATGM can be launched from either a tripod or a vehicle-mounted system, providing armed forces enhanced flexibility in various combat scenarios.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his congratulations to DRDO, its industry collaborators, and all participants in the project for the successful test. He emphasized that this achievement significantly enhances India's defensive capabilities and supports the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in defense manufacturing.

This successful test of the MPATGM not only showcases India's growing expertise in missile technology but also underscores ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on imported defense systems by creating world-class technologies domestically.