An historic partnership between Indian engineering powerhouse Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and European defence giant MBDA is expected to transform the Indian Army's anti-tank capabilities.
The joint venture's goal is to produce the ATGM-5, a fifth-generation anti-tank guided missile with unmatched lethality and precision.
This initiative aligns with India's "Make in India" initiative, which advocates for the advancement of domestic defence manufacturing.
Several procurement categories, such as "Buy (Indian-IDDM)," "Buy (Indian)," "Buy & Make (Indian)," and "Make," are applicable to the ATGM-5 project, which promotes local involvement and knowledge transfer.
Unveiled at DefExpo 2024 in Chennai, the ATGM-5 prototype exemplifies the state-of-the-art technology in action. The goal is to fully transfer MBDA's technology to India for use in the missile's production.
Additionally, the foreign partner has pledged to assist in the construction of an updated ATGM-5 that will have a notable 10-kilometer range extension.
The ATGM-5's edge comes from its incorporation of multiple disruptive fifth-generation technologies:
- New generation passive dual-band seeker: Combines colour TV and uncooled infrared capabilities to provide excellent target identification and tracking in a variety of conditions.
- New generation multipurpose tandem warhead: Capable of destroying heavily fortified targets and effectively piercing reactive armour.
- Smokeless propellant: During missile launching, the smokeless propellant reduces the missile's visibility, improving operational stealth.
- Maintenance-free missile: The ATGM-5 eases logistical burdens with its 10-year lifespan without maintenance.
- ITAR-free missile: India gains more operational freedom and flexibility by being exempt from the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) constraints.
With its cutting-edge technology, domestic production, and room for future improvements, the ATGM-5 represents a big step towards India's defence industry's autonomy.
