DRDO's MP-ATGM Secures Army Induction Approval; RFP Released for 4th-Gen Missile Development
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced that the Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) has successfully completed user trials and is ready for induction into the Indian Army. Alongside this development, the Army has initiated the procurement process for a fourth-generation anti-tank guided missile by issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to invite industry participation for the new system.
Developed with significant contributions from Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), the MP-ATGM demonstrated impressive performance during rigorous testing at the Pokhran range in Rajasthan. The trials confirmed the missile’s effectiveness, specifically its tandem warhead’s capability to penetrate modern reactive armor, fulfilling the Indian Army's requirements for defeating main battle tanks.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Guidance | Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker with AI-assisted image processing; fire-and-forget capability |
| Modes | Top-attack and direct-attack |
| Range | Approximately 200 metres to 2.5 kilometres |
| Weight | Launch unit under approximately 15 kg, optimized for infantry mobility |
| Warhead | Tandem HEAT effective against ERA and modern armor |
| Indigenisation | Fully indigenous design with BDL set for production |
Officials have described the MP-ATGM as a cost-effective solution, adaptable to various terrains and intended to replace outdated second-generation systems like MILAN and Konkurs. BDL is preparing for production now that acceptance trials have concluded.
Concurrently, the Army has issued an RFP for a fourth-generation ATGM program. This program aims to deploy a weapon with longer range and networked capabilities, designed to counter advanced protection systems on modern armored platforms. The upcoming system will focus on features such as multimode seekers (IIR and radar/laser/BLOS), networked fire-control, higher range, and guided terminal maneuvering. The Make-2 pathway is intended to foster collaboration between public and private sectors, ensuring orders for successful prototypes.
Officials have suggested that the Make-2 procurement route could enhance industry innovation by involving private sector Original Equipment Manufacturers alongside Defence Public Sector Undertakings. This initiative aims to boost indigenous research, development, and manufacturing capacity for advanced anti-armour weapons.
The introduction of the MP-ATGM places it among international ATGMs like the Israeli Spike and the American Javelin, with a focus on providing a domestic, portable solution for short-to-medium range engagements up to 2.5 km. Future acquisitions aim to bridge capability gaps at longer ranges, particularly against armored formations equipped with modern active protection systems.
Following formal induction orders, BDL is expected to increase production. The RFP for the fourth-generation ATGM will facilitate prototype development and evaluation under Make-2 guidelines, with demonstrations and user trials expected to proceed before final selection and the awarding of production contracts.
