In News:

The Ministry of Defence has recently signed a ?2,095 crore agreement with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the procurement of INVAR Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs). The acquisition aims to enhance the lethality and combat effectiveness of T-90 main battle tanks in the Indian Army.

About INVAR Missile

• Type: Laser-guided Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM)
• Launch Platform: Fired from the 125 mm gun barrel of T-90 tanks
• Origin: Developed by Rosoboronexport (Russia); produced in India under licence by BDL
• Category: Procured under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category to promote domestic defence capability and align with the goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Key Features

1. Guidance and Accuracy

• Uses semi-automatic laser beam-riding guidance.
• High resistance to electronic jamming.
• Offers high hit probability against fortified armour.

2. Penetration Capability

• Equipped with a tandem warhead designed to defeat:
  • Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) on modern tanks
  • Both stationary and moving targets (up to 70 km/hr)

3. Range and Performance

• Effective range: Up to 5 km
• Calibre: 125 mm
• Weight: 17.2 kg
• Length:
  • Missile: 695 mm
  • Throwing device: 395 mm

4. Operational Integration

• Fired directly through the T-90 tank’s gun tube.
• Guidance and tracking through the tank’s integrated fire-control optics.

Significance of the Procurement

1. Enhanced Mechanised Warfare Capability

• Strengthens India’s ability to neutralise heavily armoured enemy platforms.
• Provides precision strike capability at extended ranges.

2. Boost to Defence Manufacturing

• Encourages utilisation of DPSU expertise, primarily BDL.
• Supports development of niche defence technologies by Indian industry.

3. Strategic Impact

• Improves India’s frontline preparedness along sensitive borders.
• Modernises the equipment profile of mechanised forces.