DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous MPATGM with Top-Attack Capability
New Delhi: India achieved another major milestone in defence technology as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the Third Generation Fire-and-Forget Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) against a moving target at the KK Ranges in Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra on Saturday.
The missile, developed by DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad, demonstrated its top-attack capability, a critical feature that allows the weapon to strike enemy tanks at their most vulnerable point — the top armour.
Advanced Indigenous Technology
The indigenously developed MPATGM incorporates several state-of-the-art technologies, including:
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Imaging Infrared (IIR) Homing Seeker for autonomous target tracking
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All-electric Control Actuation System
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Fire Control System
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Tandem Warhead capable of defeating modern Main Battle Tanks
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Advanced propulsion system and high-performance sighting system
These key subsystems were developed by DRDO’s sister laboratories:
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Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad
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Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh
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High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune
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Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), Dehradun
The Thermal Target System, used to simulate an enemy tank during the test, was developed by Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur.
Day-Night Combat Ready
The missile’s IIR seeker provides accurate guidance in both day and night combat conditions, significantly enhancing battlefield effectiveness. The system can be launched either from a tripod or a military vehicle launcher, offering flexible deployment options to the Indian Army.
Industry Partnership and Induction Path
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) are the Development-Cum-Production Partners (DcPP) for the MPATGM programme, strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Leadership Applauds Success
Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, its industry partners and the entire development team, calling the successful test “an important step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”
DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, Dr Samir V Kamat, confirmed that the trial met all objectives and stated that the successful test clears the path for induction of the weapon system into the Indian Army.
Strengthening India’s Combat Capability
The successful test of MPATGM significantly enhances India’s infantry anti-armour capability and reinforces the nation’s push toward self-reliance in advanced weapon systems.