India's Dhruvastra Missile to provide precision strikes against enemy armor

In a significant development, India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has given the green light to several capital acquisition proposals, including the indigenous Dhruvastra short-range air-to-surface missile. This precision-guided weapon is designed for deployment on the indigenously built DHRUV MK-IV helicopters and is poised to elevate India's combat capabilities against enemy tanks and armoured vehicles significantly.

The Dhruvastra missile system represents a significant addition to India's military arsenal. Developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Dhruvastra, previously known as Helina, is a helicopter-launched anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system that can be deployed from both land and air platforms.

Cutting-edge features and versatility

Dhruvastra is a third-generation, fire-and-forget ATGM system, offering versatility in engaging and neutralizing enemy tanks and armoured vehicles. It operates in both direct hit mode and top attack mode, with a range spanning from 500 meters to an impressive 7 kilometres. Dhruvastra can be launched from altitudes of up to 4 kilometres and effectively targets objects moving at speeds of up to 70 kilometres per hour.

At the core of Dhruvastra's precision is its imaging infrared-seeker (IIS), which tracks and guides the missile to its target based on the target's heat signature. This seeker can lock onto a target before or after a missile launch, ensuring optimal accuracy even in challenging conditions such as low light or adverse weather. Dhruvastra's special warhead is designed to penetrate various types of armour, including reactive armour, commonly found on tanks.

Beyond Dhruvastra: The future of Indian missile technology

The induction of the Dhruvastra Missile into the Indian Army and Air Force not only enhances India's defence capabilities but also bolsters its stance in territorial disputes with neighbouring nations. With both China and Pakistan possessing substantial armoured forces, Dhruvastra equips India with a formidable countermeasure.

India's indigenous missile technology continues to evolve. The DRDO has developed a man-portable version of the Nag missile known as the Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), extending its use to infantry soldiers. Additionally, the DRDO is working on the SANT missile, a longer-range version of the Nag missile, with a range of 15-20 kilometres, suitable for launch from helicopters and drones. The successful development and deployment of Dhruvastra mark a significant stride in India's journey toward self-reliance in missile technology and defence equipment, further strengthening its national security and defence capabilities.