Source: PIB
Subject: Defence
Context: DRDO successfully flight-tested the Third-Generation Fire & Forget Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) with top-attack capability against a moving target.
About Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM):
What it is?
- MPATGM is a third-generation, fire-and-forget, shoulder-launched anti-tank guided missile system designed to destroy modern main battle tanks and armoured vehicles.
Developed by:
- Developed by DRDO, led by Defence Research & Development Laboratory (Hyderabad).
Aim:
- To provide Indian infantry with a high-precision, lightweight and lethal weapon capable of neutralising enemy armour under day-night and all-weather conditions.
Key Features:
- Fire & Forget system: After launch, the missile locks onto the target and guides itself, allowing the soldier to take cover or relocate.
- IIR homing seeker: Uses thermal imaging to detect enemy vehicles, enabling accurate targeting in day, night and low visibility.
- Top-attack mode: The missile strikes from above, where tank armour is thinnest, ensuring maximum destruction.
- Tandem HEAT warhead: A two-stage explosive first defeats reactive armour and then penetrates the main armour.
- 200–4,000 m range: Enables infantry to engage tanks from a safe stand-off distance.
- Man-portable launcher: Can be carried by soldiers and also mounted on tripods or military vehicles for flexible deployment.
Significance:
- Greatly enhances infantry’s anti-tank capability in high-intensity warfare.
- Reduces dependence on imported ATGMs like Spike and Javelin.
- Strengthens India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence technology.
