Final user trial of NAG missile successful: DRDO
23 Oct 2020 08:14:03
Target hit by NAG missile.
NEW DELHI :
INDIA on Thursday successfully carried out the final user trial of the third-generation anti-tank guided missile NAG at Pokhran desert in Rajasthan, in a significant milestone that paves the way for deployment of the weapon in strategically sensitive sectors, officials said. The missile has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to engage highly fortified enemy tanks in day and night conditions.
“The missile has “Fire & Forget” and “Top Attack” capabilities with passive homing guidance to defeat all MBTs (main battle tanks) equipped with composite and reactive armour,” an official said. The DRDO said the final user trial of the missile was carried out on Thursday at 6:45 am from Pokhran range. “The missile was integrated with the actual warhead and a tank target was kept at designated range. This was launched from NAG missile carrier NAMICA and it hit the target accurately,” the DRDO said. Following the final user trial, the missile will enter into the production phase.
“The missile will be produced by defence PSU Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), whereas Ordnance Factory Medak will produce the NAMICA,” the DRDO said. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO and the Indian Army for the successful trial of NAG missile. Chairman DRDO, G Satheesh Reddy appreciated the efforts of DRDO, Indian Army and Industry in bringing the missile up to the production phase.
Earlier, Defence Minister Singh released the Procurement Manual 2020 for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This move is aimed at encouraging more participation by Indian industry, including start-ups and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, in research and development (R&D) for achieving self-reliance.