How is India Enhancing Tank Firepower with a Rs 2,095.70 Crore INVAR Anti-Tank Missile Deal?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Enhancement of armored warfare capabilities.
- Significant procurement cost of Rs 2,095.70 crore.
- Advanced technology involving laser guidance.
- Strategic advantage over adversaries.
- Support for Aatmanirbharta in defense.
New Delhi, Nov 13 (NationPress) In a crucial step to strengthen India’s armoured warfare capabilities, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) finalized a contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the acquisition of INVAR Anti-tank Missiles totaling Rs 2,095.70 crore under the 'Buy (Indian)' initiative.
The agreement was signed by senior officials from the MoD and representatives of BDL, a state-owned defence public sector entity, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block, New Delhi.
The MoD stated, “The acquisition of the INVAR Anti-tank Missiles significantly boosts the firepower and effectiveness of the T-90 Tank, which is the backbone of the Armoured Regiments of the Indian Army.”
This advanced weapon system is a laser-guided anti-tank missile known for its exceptional hit probability.
“It is poised to revolutionize the execution of mechanized operations and provide a strategic edge over adversaries,” the MoD added.
The INVAR Anti-tank Missiles are designed for mechanized infantry and are launched from the gun barrel of the T90 tank to neutralize armoured vehicles outfitted with Explosive Reactive Armour.
Key attributes include its semi-automatic control system, laser beam riding capability, resistance to jamming, and a tandem warhead.
It can effectively target both stationary and moving objects at speeds of up to 70 km/h with a high probability of hit and kill.
Additional technical specifications include a missile length of 695 mm and a throwing device length of 395 mm.
It has a calibre of 125 mm and an operational range of 5000 m.
The contract signing follows Operation Sindoor amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
The T-90 Tank, a vital asset of the Armoured Regiments of the Indian Army, is extensively deployed along India’s borders with Pakistan and China. This contract is expected to substantially enhance the capabilities of India's security framework.
Furthermore, the procurement highlights the Government’s commitment to fulfilling the operational demands of the Indian Army by utilizing the existing capabilities of Defence Public Sector Undertakings alongside the advancement of specialized technologies from domestic industries, aiming for Aatmanirbharta in defence.