Context: India has successfully conducted field evaluation trials of indigenously-developed third-generation anti-tank guided missile Nag Mark-2. The trials were conducted at the Pokhran field range in Rajasthan, where the missile showcased exceptional precision and reliability.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Nag Mk-2.
About Nag Mark-2 Missile
- Nag Mk-2 is an indigenously made all-weather, fire-and-forget, lock-on after launch, anti-tank guided missile (ATGM).
- Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- Nag Mk-2 missile is launched from the NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier).
- NAMICA is an anti-tank armored vehicle or tank destroyer vehicle used by the Indian Army to launch anti-tank missiles.
- NAMICA is based on SARATH BMP-II. SARATH BMP-II is an amphibious infantry combat vehicle (ICV) used by the Indian Army.
- Estimated Range of Nag Mk-2 missile: 7 to 10 kilometres.
- It is a significant improvement over Nag Mark 1, which has a 4-kilometre range.
Key features:
- Third-Generation Fire-and-Forget Technology: Enables precision targeting with minimal operator intervention post-launch.
- Versatile Performance: Capable of neutralising modern armoured vehicles, equipped with explosive reactive armour (ERA).
- High-explosive anti tank (HEAT) warhead: The missile has a tandem HEAT warhead for increased destructive power.
- Platform Compatibility: Successfully integrated with Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA), enhancing battlefield mobility and deployment flexibility.
Significance:
- Underscored India's growing capabilities in anti-tank warfare and enhances Indian Army's ability to counter evolving armour threats.
- Reaffirms India's commitment to achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing.