The Indian government has taken a significant step to bolster the nation's defense capabilities. The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth ₹1,801.34 crore (approximately US$218 million) with the Armored Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL) for the procurement of the 'Nag' anti-tank missile system.
Defence Deal: The Indian government has taken a significant step to strengthen the nation's defense capabilities. The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth ₹1,801.34 crore with AVNL for the procurement of the 'Nag' anti-tank missile system. Additionally, a ₹700 crore (approximately US$85 million) deal has been finalized with Force Motors Limited and Mahindra & Mahindra Limited for the supply of light vehicles. Thus, a total of ₹2,500 crore (approximately US$303 million) worth of defense deals were concluded on Thursday, March 27th.
'Nag' Missile: The Nemesis of Enemy Tanks
The Nag missile system is a state-of-the-art anti-tank weapon system for the Indian Army, developed by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Its most notable feature is its fire-and-forget technology. Once locked onto a target, the missile requires no further guidance. It is capable of identifying and destroying the target autonomously.
The Nag missile incorporates advanced infrared technology, pre-locking onto the tank. Regardless of the weather – be it winter, summer, or rain – the missile swiftly destroys enemy tanks. It boasts a range of up to 4 kilometers. Lightweight yet powerful, this missile can decimate enemy armored vehicles within seconds.
Indigenously Developed Missile
The Nag missile system is entirely indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured. This underscores India's commitment to 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) while simultaneously enhancing the Indian Army's striking power. The first successful test of the Nag missile was conducted in 1990. Since then, it has undergone continuous technological improvements. Successful trials of its upgraded technology were conducted just two months ago.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Defence has signed another contract with Force Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra Limited for the supply of approximately 5,000 light vehicles for the army. This deal is worth approximately ₹700 crore. These vehicles will also be indigenously designed and manufactured. These defense deals will significantly enhance the Indian Army's offensive capabilities. The deployment of the Nag missile system will provide a decisive advantage against enemy armored vehicles, while the supply of light vehicles will improve troop mobility and logistics.
