Fresh Nag ATGM trials successful

After major setbacks a year ago, the Nag anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) project has bounced back, with a series of successes at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan in recent trials, where the missile was tested with a new imaging infrared (IIR) seeker of much higher resolution than the earlier one. Sources confirm that the trials were more successful than the earlier one.

The NAMICA Mk.1 (seven have been ordered), tested by the Army between 2007 and 2010, had certain deficiencies while operating in high ambient temperatures. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is also working on improvement demanded by the Army on the improved NAMICA Mk.2 platform, 200 of which may be purchased if all parameters are met. These improvements include reduction of all-up weight to 15 tonnes, improved reliability of missile launcher platform drive mechanisms, higherresolution target acquisition sight for the gunner, enhanced user-friendly process in acquisition of target through reduced offset between sight and missile seeker-acquired target scene image, improved amphibious performance, and provision of a target surveillance and acquisition sight for the crew commander.