Description

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Context

The Indian Ministry of Defence has signed contracts worth ₹2,500 crore to strengthen the Indian Army. These contracts include

Nag Anti-Tank Missile System (NAMIS) which is a powerful missile system to destroy enemy tanks.

Around 5000 modern Light Vehicles for Armed Forces for better movement in all terrains.

What is the NAMIS?

NAMIS is a special missile system designed to destroy enemy tanks. It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation and produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited.

Features of NAMIS

Fire-and-Forget: Once launched it does not need further control.
Infrared Seeker: It locks onto the target using heat detection.
Works at Night: Can hit targets even in darkness or bad weather.
Destroys Strongly Armored Tanks: Designed to penetrate thick tank protection.

How Does the Missile Attack?

Top Attack Mode – The missile rises high and strikes the tank from above where armor is weaker.
Direct Attack Mode – The missile travels straight and hits the target from the front.

Where is NAMIS Mounted?

Mounted on a BMP-2 vehicle which can move across different terrains.
This vehicle is also amphibious meaning it can travel on land and water.

Other Versions of the Nag Missile

Helina – Launched from helicopters.
Dhruvastra – An advanced version of Helina.
MPATGM – A portable version carried by soldiers.

Why are Light Vehicles Important?

The Defence Ministry also signed a contract with Force Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra to provide around 5000 light vehicles to the Army.

Features

Strong Engine – Can carry heavy loads up to 800 kg.
Can Move on Any Terrain – Works in mountains, deserts and forests.
Useful in Different Weather – Designed to perform well in all conditions.

Air Defence Training System Contract

The Defence Ministry also awarded a ₹152 crore contract to Zen Technologies Limited for Integrated Air Defence Combat Simulators. This system will train soldiers in air defence operations using advanced virtual simulations.

Why is This Important?

Helps modernize India’s defence system.
Makes the Indian Army stronger and more prepared for different types of attacks.
Improves mobility and protection for soldiers.

Sources:

HINDU

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Consider the following statements about NAMIS:

NAMIS is a third generation anti tank guided missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.
It employs a laser guided targeting system for striking enemy tanks.
The missile can engage targets in both top attack and direct attack modes.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B)

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct

he Nag missile is a third-generation ATGM developed by DRDO for the Indian Armed Forces. It is designed to destroy heavily armored enemy tanks.

Statement 2 is incorrect

The Nag missile uses an Imaging Infrared seeker not a laser guided system to lock onto its target before launch.

Statement 3 is correct

The missile can engage targets in two modes – top attack mode (where it climbs and strikes from above) and direct attack mode (where it travels straight to hit the target).