India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently achieved milestone with the successful field evaluation trials of the Nag Mark 2 missile. Conducted at the Pokhran field range in Rajasthan, these trials showcased the missile’s advanced capabilities. The Nag Mark 2 is a third-generation fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile designed to counter modern armoured threats effectively.
Overview of Nag Mark 2
The Nag Mark 2 is an indigenously developed missile aimed at modernising India’s anti-tank warfare capabilities. It employs fire-and-forget technology, allowing operators to lock onto targets before launch. This ensures high precision in strikes, even in challenging battlefield conditions.
Field Trials and Performance
During the trials, the Nag Mark 2 demonstrated exceptional accuracy. It successfully destroyed all designated targets at both maximum and minimum ranges. This performance validates its operational range and effectiveness against various armoured vehicles.
Technological Features
The missile features advanced third-generation technology. Its fire-and-forget capability reduces the need for continuous operator input after launch. This allows for rapid engagement of multiple targets. The Nag Mark 2 is also designed to neutralise modern armoured vehicles equipped with explosive reactive armour (ERA).
Integration with NAMICA
The Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA) Version 2 was also evaluated successfully during these trials. This integration enhances battlefield mobility and deployment flexibility. It allows for efficient transport and launch of the missile system in various operational scenarios.
Strategic Importance
The successful trials of the Nag Mark 2 tell India’s growing capabilities in anti-tank warfare. They enhance the readiness of the Indian Army to counter evolving armoured threats, particularly along the nation’s borders. The missile is a critical addition to India’s defence arsenal.
Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing
The achievement aligns with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing. This success reduces dependence on imported systems and strengthens indigenous research and development capabilities. It reflects the synergy between the DRDO, the Indian Army, and the defence industry.
Future Implications
The induction of the Nag Mark 2 is expected to boost the Indian Army’s operational effectiveness. It will enhance the ability to engage and neutralise armoured threats swiftly. This advancement is crucial for maintaining strategic superiority in the region.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the significance of indigenous defence technologies in enhancing national security.
- Estimate the impact of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative on India’s defence procurement strategies.
- What are the challenges faced by India in achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing? Discuss.
- Point out the role of advanced missile systems in modern warfare. How do they influence military strategies?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the significance of indigenous defence technologies in enhancing national security.
- Indigenous technologies reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, enhancing strategic autonomy.
- They encourage innovation and technological advancements within the country.
- Improved national security through faster response times and tailored solutions to local threats.
- Increased employment opportunities in the defence sector, boosting the economy.
- Strengthening of military capabilities with systems that are better suited to national needs.
2. Estimate the impact of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative on India’s defence procurement strategies.
- ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ promotes self-reliance, shifting focus from imports to domestic production.
- Encourages investment in research and development for indigenous technologies.
- Facilitates collaboration between public and private sectors in defence manufacturing.
- Enhances the competitiveness of Indian defence industries on a global scale.
- Streamlines procurement processes to prioritize local suppliers and reduce bureaucratic delays.
3. What are the challenges faced by India in achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing? Discuss.
- Limited access to advanced technologies and intellectual property from foreign firms.
- Inadequate infrastructure and investment in research and development.
- Challenges in scaling up production capabilities to meet military demands.
- Regulatory hurdles and bureaucratic inefficiencies in defence procurement.
- Need for skilled workforce and talent retention in the defence sector.
4. Point out the role of advanced missile systems in modern warfare. How do they influence military strategies?
- Advanced missile systems provide precision strike capabilities, reducing collateral damage.
- They enhance deterrence by ensuring credible retaliatory options against adversaries.
- Influence the speed and agility of military operations through rapid deployment and engagement.
- Shift focus from traditional large-scale warfare to asymmetric warfare strategies.
- Encourage the development of integrated defence systems for multi-domain operations.
