SOURCE: AFI
A significant milestone in India’s defense capabilities was achieved on June 25, 2024, when the MBT Arjun Mk 1 Tank at KK Ranges, ACC&S Ahmednagar, successfully fired an indigenously developed laser-guided Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM). The ATGM successfully defeated its target at minimum range, demonstrating its effectiveness and precision.
The tank crew conducted the firing test from the final user configuration of the MBT Arjun Mk 1, which has now been officially equipped with Missile Firing Capability (MFC). This achievement marks the successful completion of all project objectives for the ATGM, paving the way for its fielding for user evaluation.
The Pune-based Armament R&D Establishment (ARDE) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with HEMRL, IRDE, and CVRDE, developed this ATGM. Teams from ACC&S Ahmednagar provided essential support for the test. ARDE served as the nodal agency and system designer, while HEMRL developed the propellant and igniter charges, IRDE developed the laser seeker and designator, and CVRDE carried out FCC and LTD integration with the MBT Arjun tank.
The ATGM employs a tandem HEAT warhead, capable of defeating ERA-protected moving armored vehicles within a range of 1.5 to 5 km. Its versatile configuration allows for launch from multiple platforms, including tank guns, tripod launchers, and BMPs with suitable modifications.
This is the first laser-guided ATGM developed by DRDO, marking a significant achievement in India’s defense technology. The system’s development was entirely indigenous, showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The ATGM will significantly enhance the firepower of the MBT Arjun and provide a critical advantage on the battlefield.