DRDO Achieves Milestone with MPATGM Test Success

Post by : Bianca Hayes

On Sunday, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated a significant achievement as it successfully conducted a test of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) against a moving target. This trial at the Kharjuna Khare (KK) ranges in Maharashtra's Ahilya Nagar district is a vital step towards the missile's eventual deployment within the Indian Army.

According to Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of DRDO and Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D, the missile operated flawlessly during the test, effectively engaging and eliminating the target, which emphasizes its accuracy and dependability. With this successful trial, the MPATGM is on track to become a pivotal component of the Army's armaments.

The MPATGM represents a third-generation, fire-and-forget capability, fully designed and developed in India. It includes cutting-edge indigenous systems like an Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker, an all-electric control mechanism, modern fire control features, a tandem warhead, a robust propulsion system, and advanced sighting capabilities. Development of these components involved various DRDO labs such as Research Centre Imarat, Terminal Ballistics Research Lab, High Energy Materials Research Lab, and Instruments Research and Development Establishment.

To enhance realism during testing, the Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur created a Thermal Target System simulating an enemy tank. Official sources state that the missile's warhead can penetrate modern main battle tanks, including those with sophisticated protection systems. The MPATGM can be launched from a tripod or military vehicle-mounted platforms, providing the armed forces with increased operational versatility.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO and its industry collaborators for their successful test, recognizing it as a key milestone in bolstering India's defence potential and aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative aimed at self-sufficiency in the defence sector.

This successful MPATGM test showcases India's advancements in missile technology while reflecting its commitment to diminish reliance on foreign defence imports and develop sophisticated systems domestically.

Jan. 12, 2026 3:41 p.m. 104

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