New Delhi: Ministry of Defence, in a decisive move to enhance India’s defence preparedness, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the procurement of 20,000 new-generation anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and 1,500 launchers for the Indian Army. The acquisition of these missiles are of strategic importance as they are intended for deployment along the borders with Pakistan and China.
Aligned with India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under its “Make in India” initiative, the Indian government has specified that these ATGMs will fall under the “Buy (Indian-IDDM)” procurement category, which mandates that at least 60% of the system’s content be produced domestically. By focusing on indigenous production, the government aims to reduce dependence on foreign defence imports while building a robust military-industrial complex within the country.
The design of the ATGMs must be modular, allowing future upgrades without significant changes to their structural design and capable of performing in a variety of terrains, from the desert landscapes near Pakistan to the high-altitude regions near China. Expected to have a range of at least 4 kilometres, their operational versatility is essential given the ongoing security challenges India faces on both of these fronts. These next-generation missiles will be able to destroy a wide range of enemy assets, such as tanks, armored vehicles, and even low-flying helicopters. Moreover, the missiles must perform reliably in extreme weather conditions, from freezing temperatures in the Himalayan regions to the heat of desert environments. Their capability to function day and night and in adverse weather conditions like rain, fog, and dust is crucial for maintaining operational readiness across diverse landscapes.
Taking note of China’s rapid modernisation of its military, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India’s new ATGM program reflects its determination to counter China’s growing military prowess with emphasis on the development of domestic capabilities through collaboration with Indian companies, fostering local innovation and manufacturing.
