India Successfully Tests Nag Mark 2 Anti-Tank Guided Missile

1. On January 13, 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted field trials of the Nag Mark 2, a third-generation anti-tank guided missile (ATGM).
2. The missile is developed indigenously and has advanced fire-and-forget technology.
3. The trials were held at Pokhran in Rajasthan, and the missile hit all targets precisely at both maximum and minimum range, proving its accuracy and reliability.
4. This achievement marks a major step in strengthening India's defence capabilities, especially in anti-tank warfare.

Last year, India successfully launched an Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile, Agni 4. The launch was carried out from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The launch of 'Ballistic Missile, Agni 4' had successfully validated all operational and technical parameters. It was conducted under the aegis of Strategic Forces Command.

Key Points of the Nag Mark 2 Trials

1. Successful Performance: The Nag Mark 2 missile hit all targets during the field trials, confirming its ability to operate at both maximum and minimum range limits.
2. Precision and Reliability: The missile demonstrated exceptional precision, destroying targets with high accuracy and showcasing its dependability under field conditions.
3. Fire-and-Forget Technology: The missile’s fire-and-forget capability allows the operator to lock onto the target before launch. After firing, the missile guides itself autonomously to the target, ensuring it remains effective in complex and fast-changing battle environments.

Nag Mark 2 Development

1. Designed for Modern Armoured Vehicles: The Nag Mark 2 is built to neutralize modern tanks and armoured vehicles, including those protected by explosive reactive armour (ERA), making it highly effective against advanced military threats.
2. Specialised in Anti-Tank Warfare: The missile is a key asset in India's anti-tank strategy, designed to enhance the country’s capabilities in modern battlefield situations, especially in border areas.

Integration with NAMICA

1. NAMICA Platform: The Nag Mark 2 is integrated with the Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA) Version 2, which is a vehicle designed to launch the missile. The successful testing of both the missile and the carrier system shows the complete weapon system is ready for use.
2. Improved Mobility and Flexibility: The NAMICA version 2 allows the missile to be launched from a mobile platform, improving its adaptability and effectiveness on the battlefield.

Strategic Importance

1. Strengthening India's Defence: The successful trials of the Nag Mark 2 missile help India enhance its anti-tank capabilities. It is an important tool for the Indian Army to counter armoured threats along its borders.
2. Self-Reliance in Defence: This success aligns with India's goal of achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reducing dependency on foreign weapons and boosting local defence production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative.

Key Features of the Nag Mark 2

1. Fire-and-Forget Technology: This technology allows the missile to be launched with the target locked in, and after launch, it guides itself to the target, requiring minimal input from the operator.
2. Versatility: The Nag Mark 2 is capable of targeting and destroying modern armoured vehicles, including tanks with explosive reactive armour (ERA), enhancing its effectiveness in varied combat situations.
3. Platform Compatibility: The missile can be launched from the Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA), which improves mobility and ensures that it can be deployed quickly and efficiently in the battlefield.
4. Precision Targeting: With its advanced guidance system, the missile strikes targets accurately, making it a reliable weapon for neutralising enemy armoured vehicles.

Conclusion

The successful trials of the Nag Mark 2 missile mark a significant milestone in India’s military capabilities. The missile's advanced fire-and-forget technology, precision, and ability to neutralize modern armoured vehicles make it a powerful asset for the Indian Army. Its successful integration with the NAMICA platform adds to its versatility. The achievement also highlights India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and reducing dependence on foreign defence systems.

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