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Indian Army to receive locally-made Nag Mk2 anti-tank missile to improve defense against armored vehicles.


On January 13, 2025, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the successful completion of field evaluation trials of the Nag Mk 2, an indigenously developed third-generation anti-tank fire-and-forget guided missile, conducted at the Pokhran Field Range in Rajasthan. These trials demonstrated the missile’s ability to destroy all targets at both maximum and minimum range limits over three test launches. The trials also included the evaluation of the Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA) version-2, a modified BMP-2 Sarath platform, completing the system’s testing and confirming its readiness for induction into the Indian Army.
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The Nag Mk 2 anti-tank guided missile retains the IIR seeker and tandem HEAT warhead of the Mk 1 but offers improved precision and operational capabilities. (Picture source: Indian MoD)


Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh acknowledged the successful trials and noted the contributions of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Army, and industry stakeholders in achieving this milestone. Secretary of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman, Dr. Samir V Kamat, emphasized the collaborative efforts that enabled the Nag Mk 2 and NAMICA version-2 to reach operational readiness. These systems, developed by DRDO and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), are expected to enhance the Indian Army’s anti-tank warfare capabilities.

The Nag missile program began in 1988 under India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). Designed to address the need for a domestically-produced anti-tank guided missile, the Nag was initially tested in 1990. Development was delayed due to challenges with the missile’s imaging infrared (IIR) guidance system, which struggled to distinguish targets under high-temperature conditions. These issues were resolved through modifications and further testing, culminating in the missile’s clearance for production in 2019. The Nag family includes several variants, each tailored to specific operational requirements.

The Nag Mk 1, the original land-based variant of the system, features a fire-and-forget guidance system with a maximum range of 4 kilometers. It employs an IIR seeker and a tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead, designed to engage modern armored threats, including those with explosive reactive armor (ERA). Mounted on the NAMICA platform, the Mk 1 was showcased during the 2023 Republic Day parade, signaling its readiness for deployment. The missile system has undergone numerous tests since its initial development to improve reliability and performance.

The Nag Mk 2 builds upon the Mk 1 with several enhancements. It features retractable wings for improved compactness and increased range. Propulsion technology adapted from the Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) has been incorporated to enhance performance. The Mk 2 retains the IIR seeker and tandem HEAT warhead of the Mk 1 but offers improved precision and operational capabilities. Its fire-and-forget technology allows for autonomous targeting and engagement, reducing operator involvement during missions.

The NAMICA version-2, evaluated alongside the Nag Mk 2, serves as the launch platform for the missile. Based on the BMP-2 Sarath infantry fighting vehicle (which could be soon replaced by the American Stryker), NAMICA version-2 has been modified to include a missile storage system capable of carrying 12 missiles, with eight in a ready-to-fire configuration. The platform retains its amphibious capabilities and incorporates advanced electro-optical systems for target acquisition. These features, combined with its compact design, improve its battlefield deployment flexibility. The NAMICA version-2 is now prepared for operational use as part of the Nag Mk 2 weapon system.


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