DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous MPATGM with Top-Attack Capability

India achieved another defense milestone as DRDO successfully flight-tested the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile on January 11, 2026. The test was conducted against a moving target in Maharashtra. The missile demonstrated its top-attack and fire-and-forget capability. This success brings the indigenous weapon system closer to induction into the Indian Army.

Why in News?

DRDO successfully conducted the flight test of the MPATGM with top-attack capability. The missile accurately hit a moving target, validating its advanced guidance and combat performance.

About the Test

• The test was carried out by the Defence Research and Development Organisation at the KK Ranges in Maharashtra.
• The missile is a third-generation, fire-and-forget system, meaning it does not require operator guidance after launch and can strike from above.

About the MPATGM System

• The MPATGM is a third generation, fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile, designed to be man-portable and highly effective against modern main battle tanks.
• The “fire-and-forget” feature means that once launched, the missile does not require further guidance from the operator, significantly reducing soldier exposure on the battlefield.
• One of its most critical features is the top attack capability, wherein the missile strikes the upper portion of enemy tanks, which is typically the most lightly armoured section.
• This makes the MPATGM particularly lethal against advanced armoured platforms.

Key Technologies Integrated in MPATGM

• The missile incorporates several state-of-the-art indigenous technologies, showcasing the depth of India’s defense R&D ecosystem.
• A major component is the Imaging Infrared (IIR) Homing Seeker, which enables high-precision targeting and ensures day and night operational capability.
• The MPATGM also features an all-electric Control Actuation System, enhancing reliability and reducing maintenance complexity.
• Its Fire Control System ensures accurate target acquisition and engagement, while the Tandem Warhead is designed to defeat explosive reactive armour and advanced protection systems of modern tanks.
• The propulsion system and high-performance sighting system further contribute to the missile’s accuracy, range and operational flexibility.

Significance of the Test

The MPATGM strengthens India’s anti-tank warfare capability. Its top-attack mode allows it to hit the weakest part of enemy tanks. The success supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat by reducing dependence on imported weapon systems and enhancing battlefield readiness.

Background and Development

• The missile uses advanced technologies such as Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker, tandem warhead, and all-electric control system.
• Multiple DRDO laboratories contributed to its development, while Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited are production partners.

Key Summary at a Glance

Aspect	Details
Why in News?	DRDO successfully flight-tested MPATGM with top-attack capability
Purpose of Test	Validate top-attack and fire-and-forget capabilities against a moving target
Missile Category	Third-generation, man-portable, fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile
Conducted By	Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Key Features	Top-attack capability, Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker, tandem warhead, all-electric control actuation system
Combat Advantage	Strikes the lightly armoured upper part of tanks; reduces soldier exposure

Question

Q. The MPATGM tested by DRDO belongs to which category of missiles?

A. First-generation
B. Second-generation
C. Third-generation
D. Hypersonic