The Indian Army has cleared the procurement of the indigenously developed Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), marking a significant boost to both its infantry combat capabilities and India’s domestic defense industry. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the system is intended to replace or complement imported anti-tank weapons with a homegrown solution designed for Indian battlefield conditions.
The MPATGM is a third-generation, fire-and-forget missile system engineered for infantry use in diverse operational environments. With a range of approximately 2 kilometers, it is particularly suited for close combat scenarios requiring high mobility, quick target acquisition, and reliable kill probability. Its deployment is expected to strengthen the Army’s capacity to counter armored threats, especially in contested and high-intensity operational zones.
Although concerns were previously raised regarding the missile’s weight—estimated to be around 2 kilograms heavier than optimal for man-portable use—the Army has opted to proceed, underscoring confidence in the system’s performance and its strategic value as an indigenous capability.
Manufacturing will be handled by Bharat Dynamics Limited, supporting streamlined production and reinforcing India’s domestic defense industrial base in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The MPATGM incorporates advanced imaging infrared seeker technology, ensuring high accuracy and reliable target identification even under challenging conditions. Its fire-and-forget functionality allows operators to relocate immediately after launch, minimizing exposure to enemy fire and improving survivability in fast-paced combat environments.
