Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed contracts worth ₹2,500 crore for the procurement of Nag Missile System (NAMIS) Tracked version and around 5,000 Light Vehicles for the Indian Armed Forces. The agreements were signed with Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), Force Motors Ltd, and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
Key Highlights of Contracts
Nag Missile System (NAMIS) Tracked Version Procurement
- Total cost: ₹1,801.34 crore.
- Developed by Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), DRDO.
- Procured under the Buy (Indian – Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured) category.
- The Army currently has an outdated inventory of second-generation Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs).
- The Indian Army faces a shortage of around 50% of launchers and nearly 85% of missiles compared to its total requirement.
About NAMIS (Tracked) – Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA)
Highly Sophisticated Anti-Tank System
- Equipped with fire-and-forget anti-tank missiles.
- Features advanced sighting systems for enhanced lethality and precision.
Technical Specifications
- Third-generation fire-and-forget missile mounted on a BMP-2 armoured chassis.
- Has amphibious capabilities, making it effective in diverse combat environments.
- Equipped with an Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker for target lock before launch.
- Range: 500 metres to 4 km.
- Warhead weight: 8 kg.
- Speed: Up to 230 metres per second.
- Can carry six Nag missiles in a ready-to-fire configuration.
- Rapid launch capability – all six missiles can be fired within 20 seconds.
Operational Significance
- Will be operated by frontline mechanised infantry troops.
- Marks a major step in modernising India’s anti-tank capabilities.
- Enhances operational readiness and firepower of the Indian Army across various battlefield scenarios.
About Light Vehicles Procurement
Designed for modern operational needs
- Enhanced engine power to support a payload of 800 kg.
- Can operate in all terrains and extreme conditions.
Operational Role
- Facilitates quick troop movement to forward positions.
- Compact and agile, allowing navigation through rough terrains where larger vehicles struggle.
- Used for transporting supplies, ammunition, and equipment to frontline units.
Strategic Importance of Deal
Strengthens the Indian Army’s Anti-Tank Capabilities
- Provides advanced technology firepower for mechanised infantry.
- Improves mobility and effectiveness in combat situations.
Boosts Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
- Supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by encouraging domestic production.
- Reduces reliance on foreign weapon systems.
Enhances Battlefield Mobility
- Light vehicles ensure efficient deployment of forces in challenging terrains.
- Strengthens logistics and operational preparedness for the Indian Army.
This procurement represents a significant step in modernising India’s military assets, enhancing both firepower and mobility to ensure combat readiness in future conflicts.