DRDO Developing 15 Thrust Vector Control Systems for Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is currently working on the development of 15 thrust vector control systems for the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM). This missile, a third-generation anti-tank guided missile (ATGM), employs infrared light to track and engage targets effectively. Collaborating with VEM Technologies Private Limited, an Indian defense contractor, DRDO aims to equip the Indian Air Force (IAF) with this advanced weaponry, specifically designed to intercept low RCS aerial threats with superior maneuverability.
Derived from India's Nag ATGM, the MPATGM is designed as a "fire-and-forget" system, offering simplicity and effectiveness in combat scenarios. Its guidance system relies on passive infrared technology, utilizing the heat emitted by targets to track and pursue them accurately. Thrust vector control (TVC) capabilities allow the missile to adjust its trajectory, enhancing its agility and precision during flight.
Characterized by its lightweight construction, the MPATGM is compatible with man-portable launchers equipped with thermal sights, ensuring ease of deployment in various operational environments. Recent tests conducted by DRDO at a range in Southern India demonstrated the missile's exceptional accuracy and destructive capability, validating its effectiveness in neutralizing targets with precision.
The ongoing collaboration between DRDO and VEM Technologies Pvt Ltd underscores India's commitment to advancing its indigenous defense capabilities, bolstering its defense infrastructure to meet evolving security challenges effectively. With continued development and testing, the MPATGM is poised to become a formidable asset for the Indian Armed Forces, enhancing their operational capabilities in modern warfare scenarios.