In a move to enhance its anti-tank capabilities, the Indian Army is procuring 200 new and upgraded Konkurs-M missile systems, specifically designed for its fleet of BMP-2 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs). This acquisition is part of the army's ongoing modernization efforts to ensure its armored units remain combat-ready and effective against evolving threats on the battlefield.
The Konkurs-M represents the latest iteration of this potent anti-tank weapon system. As a second-generation, semi-automatic, wire-guided anti-tank guided missile (ATGM), it is recognized for its reliability, precision, and ability to neutralize a variety of armored targets, including those equipped with reactive armor. This acquisition underscores the Indian Army's confidence in the Konkurs system's combat effectiveness and adaptability to modern warfare.
The BMP-2 IFV, a cornerstone of the Indian Army's mechanized infantry units, is a versatile platform employed for both troop transport and direct fire support. Integrating the upgraded Konkurs-M missile system significantly enhances the BMP-2's capacity to eliminate heavily armored threats, such as modern main battle tanks, at ranges exceeding 4 kilometers. The improved Konkurs-M boasts enhanced guidance and penetration capabilities, ensuring greater accuracy and lethality in complex operational environments.
The upgraded Konkurs system introduces several key advancements:
- Improved Armor Penetration: The system is engineered to defeat modern armor, including explosive reactive armor (ERA), ensuring its effectiveness against contemporary and future armored vehicles.
- Extended Range: With a maximum effective range of up to 4 kilometers, the Konkurs-M provides a crucial standoff advantage, enabling troops to engage targets from safer distances and minimizing their exposure to enemy fire.
- Advanced Guidance System: The semi-automatic command-to-line-of-sight (SACLOS) guidance system guarantees precise targeting while reducing the risk to operators.
- Adaptability: Designed for both vehicle-mounted and dismounted operations, the system offers tactical flexibility across diverse combat scenarios.
