The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully flight-tested the third-generation Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) with top-attack capability against a moving target, marking a major milestone in India’s indigenous missile development programme.
The test was conducted on January 11, 2026, at the KK Ranges in Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra, by DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad. The successful trial demonstrated the missile’s accuracy, reliability, and advanced combat capabilities under realistic operational conditions.
Advanced Indigenous Technologies
The MPATGM is a third-generation, fire-and-forget weapon system equipped with state-of-the-art indigenous technologies, including:
- Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker with day and night capability
- All-electric control actuation system
- Advanced fire control system
- Tandem warhead capable of defeating modern main battle tanks
- High-performance propulsion and sighting systems
Key subsystems have been developed by DRDO’s sister laboratories, including Research Centre Imarat (Hyderabad), Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (Chandigarh), High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (Pune), and Instruments Research & Development Establishment (Dehradun).
The Thermal Target System used to simulate a tank target was developed by Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur.
Operational Flexibility
The missile can be launched from a tripod as well as from a military vehicle-mounted launcher, providing flexibility for infantry units and mechanised formations. Its top-attack profile allows it to strike the most vulnerable part of enemy armour, significantly enhancing lethality on the battlefield.
Industry Partnership and Induction Path
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) are the Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPP) for the MPATGM system. With the successful trial, the missile has moved a step closer to induction into the Indian Army.
Leadership Reactions
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, its industry partners, and the development teams, describing the achievement as an important step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Samir V Kamat stated that the trial met all objectives and successfully validated the weapon system, paving the way for its induction into the Indian Army.
