India’s BDL in Advanced Talks to Export Amogha-III Anti-Tank Missiles Globally
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a leader in India's defense manufacturing sector, is currently in advanced discussions with multiple countries to export its homegrown Amogha-III anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). This third-generation, fire-and-forget missile has not only drawn considerable interest internationally but also signals India’s rising status in the global defense industry. Designed to meet modern warfare needs, the Amogha-III’s capabilities were highlighted during successful field firing tests conducted in 2023. The missile has since become a focal point for foreign buyers looking to strengthen their anti-armor capabilities.
The Amogha-III stands out as a man-portable missile with impressive features tailored for today’s fast-evolving combat requirements. With a range of 200 to 2,500 meters, this missile provides substantial operational flexibility, allowing troops to target armored threats from a safe distance. Its fire-and-forget technology enables operators to move swiftly after launching, reducing their exposure and enhancing battlefield safety. This is further supported by the missile’s “soft launch” capability, which minimizes backblast and thus protects operators from the harmful effects of traditional launch systems.
Equipped with a dual-mode imaging infrared (IIR) seeker, the Amogha-III can lock onto targets in all weather conditions and is effective both day and night. This dual-mode seeker allows for precision even in low-visibility scenarios, an essential trait for today’s multifaceted combat environments. The missile also incorporates a tandem warhead capable of penetrating over 650 mm of Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA), a feature that positions it as a formidable weapon against advanced armored threats. ERA is commonly used in modern tanks to counteract the impact of shaped charges; the Amogha-III’s ability to pierce such defenses makes it a strong option for nations seeking enhanced anti-armor systems.
The Amogha-III’s smokeless propulsion system minimizes the visual signature, which is key to avoiding detection, particularly in covert operations. Its aerodynamic design and thrust vector control further contribute to high in-flight stability, allowing the missile to maintain its trajectory with accuracy. Together, these features present a package that is both lethal and highly adaptive to modern combat conditions.
While the Indian Army is still conducting its final user trials, BDL’s engagement with international buyers is well underway. According to company representatives, discussions with two or three countries are in advanced stages, though they have yet to result in binding agreements. The international interest reflects the growing demand for versatile, indigenous missile systems like the Amogha-III in the global arms market, and BDL’s proactive outreach has positioned it as a serious competitor in this space.
This pursuit of export opportunities for the Amogha-III aligns with India’s broader defense goals under the "Make in India" initiative. Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to build India’s industrial and defense manufacturing capacities to reduce dependency on imports and, ultimately, become a key player in the global defense export market. With the Amogha-III, BDL demonstrates India’s ability to develop advanced, indigenous military technology that can meet international standards and potentially compete with well-established defense products from around the world.
If these negotiations culminate in finalized orders, it would represent a milestone for BDL and for India's defense export industry as a whole. Not only would it be a significant achievement for BDL, but it would also reinforce India’s reputation as an emerging leader in defense production. This development could open doors for other Indian defense firms to explore global markets, expanding India's footprint in the international defense industry and further validating the success of the Make in India vision.
