MPATGM Trials: DRDO and Indian Army Achieve Major Defence Milestone
On January 11, 2026, India marked a significant leap in indigenous defence capability as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Army, successfully conducted flight trials of the Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM). The missile accurately engaged and destroyed a moving armoured target, demonstrating advanced precision and reliability under operational conditions.
The successful test places India among a select group of nations possessing a third-generation “fire-and-forget” anti-tank guided missile system, reinforcing the country’s growing self-reliance in critical military technologies.
What is MPATGM?
The Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) is an indigenously developed, third-generation anti-tank weapon system designed to neutralise modern armoured threats, including main battle tanks equipped with advanced protection systems.
It is intended to enhance the infantry’s anti-armour capability, especially in diverse terrains such as plains, deserts, and semi-urban combat zones.
Key Features and Capabilities
1. Third-Generation “Fire-and-Forget” Technology
MPATGM operates on a fire-and-forget principle, meaning that once the missile is launched, it autonomously tracks and destroys the target. The operator does not need to guide the missile after launch, allowing soldiers to:
- Take immediate cover
- Relocate quickly
- Reduce battlefield exposure
This feature significantly improves survivability in high-intensity combat scenarios.
2. Top-Attack Mode
The missile uses a top-attack trajectory, striking armoured vehicles from above. This is strategically important because:
- The top portion of tanks has the thinnest armour
- It increases the probability of a catastrophic kill
- It is effective against heavily protected modern tanks
3. Indigenous Imaging Infrared (IIR) Seeker
MPATGM is equipped with an Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker, which enables:
- Accurate target acquisition
- High resistance to countermeasures
- Day and night operational capability
This seeker allows the missile to lock onto thermal signatures of enemy armour with high precision.
4. Tandem Warhead Technology
The missile uses a tandem warhead, a two-stage explosive system designed to defeat:
- Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA)
- Modern composite armour used in contemporary battle tanks
The first charge neutralises reactive armour, while the second penetrates the main armour.
5. Operational Range and Portability
- Effective range: 200 metres to 4 km
- Weight: Approximately 14.5 kg
- Launch options:
- Tripod-mounted
- Vehicle-mounted
Its lightweight design makes MPATGM highly suitable for infantry units operating in forward areas.
| Feature | MPATGM | Javelin (USA) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 14.5 kg ✅ | 22.3 kg |
| Range | 200m-4km | 2.5km |
| Fire & Forget | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Successful Trial at KK Ranges, Maharashtra
The January 2026 trial was conducted at the KK Ranges in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, where the missile:
- Successfully locked onto a moving target
- Demonstrated stable flight and guidance
- Achieved a direct hit under realistic battlefield conditions
This test marked the completion of critical developmental trials, validating both design and performance parameters.
Strategic Significance of MPATGM
1. Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the MPATGM success as a major step towards defence self-reliance. With this achievement:
- India reduces dependence on imported systems such as the US-made Javelin and Israel’s Spike
- Indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities are strengthened
- Foreign exchange outflow is reduced
2. Strengthening Infantry Combat Capability
MPATGM significantly enhances the anti-tank firepower of Indian infantry, especially against:
- Heavily armoured adversaries
- Rapid mechanised formations
- High-threat border scenarios
3. Pathway to Induction into the Indian Army
The successful trial against a moving target clears the way for:
- User trials
- Production clearance
- Eventual induction into the Indian Army’s infantry units
Once inducted, MPATGM will become a critical component of India’s anti-armour doctrine.
Development and Production Ecosystem
- Design & Development:
- DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad
- Production Partners:
- Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)
- Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
This collaboration highlights India’s integrated research-production-deployment defence ecosystem.
Why MPATGM Matters for Exams
UPSC & Defence Exam Relevance
- GS Paper III – Defence Technology & Indigenisation
- Essay topics on Aatmanirbhar Bharat
- Current Affairs for CDS, AFCAT, CAPF
Key Takeaway for Aspirants
MPATGM represents:
- Indigenous high-end defence technology
- Strategic autonomy in weapons systems
- India’s shift from importer to developer of advanced missiles
Future Prospects & Induction Timeline
With developmental trials now successfully concluded at KK Ranges, the MPATGM moves to the next phase of user trials with Indian Army infantry units. Production clearance from Army Headquarters is expected within 12-18 months, paving the way for bulk orders to Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).
Frontline mountain divisions and mechanized infantry battalions along the LAC and LoC will likely receive initial deliveries by late 2027 or early 2028. The system’s integration with Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) and next-generation soldier systems under F-INSAS Mark II remains a key priority for the Army.
This achievement builds momentum for DRDO’s parallel anti-tank projects, creating India’s first comprehensive indigenous ATGM ecosystem:
- Short range (0-4 km): MPATGM
- Medium range (4-10 km): Nag Mark II
- Long range (10-20 km): SANT missile
The MPATGM success positions India as an emerging global leader in precision-guided munitions, where strategic vision meets proven engineering excellence to safeguard national security interests across diverse battlefield terrains.
