India and the United States are exploring the possibility of co-producing American Javelin missiles in India to meet the Indian military’s requirements.
Recent High-Level Discussions
- Context: Discussions on joint production took place during a recent high-level visit from the US to India.
- Participants: Defense sources confirmed the talks to ANI.
Cooperation Expansion
- Scope: India and the US are considering broader cooperation, including the joint production of military equipment.
- Current Needs: The Indian Army requires a significant number of advanced anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs).
Existing Challenges
- Limited Acquisitions: Due to urgent needs, India had to procure a limited number of Israeli Spike ATGMs under emergency procurement.
- Ongoing Efforts: Attempts to acquire third-generation ATGMs through global routes have not been successful.
Indigenous Development
- Domestic Efforts: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on developing indigenous solutions.
- Upcoming Trials: DRDO plans to conduct trials of the Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) soon.
MPATGM System
- Components: The system includes the MPATGM, Launcher, Target Acquisition System, and Fire Control Unit.
- Field Evaluations: The Indian MPATGM has undergone multiple field evaluations to demonstrate technological superiority.
- Requirements: Indian forces prefer shoulder-fired missile systems that are lightweight and portable across difficult terrain.
Future Prospects
- Identification of Partners: The Indian partner for the joint production will be identified later as discussions progress.
- Previous Showcases: The American side has previously demonstrated the Javelin missiles’ capabilities to India, but the project did not materialize then.
Javelin Missile Overview
- Development: Javelin missiles are developed and produced by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin.
- Global Use: These missiles have been sold to various countries and have seen action in multiple conflicts.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the main topic of discussion between India and the US?
- a) Trade agreements
- b) Co-production of Javelin missiles
- c) Climate change policies
- d) Space exploration
- Who confirmed the discussions about the joint production of missiles?
- a) Political sources
- b) Defence sources
- c) Economic analysts
- d) Environmentalists
- Why did India acquire a limited number of Israeli Spike ATGMs?
- a) To test new technology
- b) Under emergency procurement
- c) For training purposes
- d) As part of a trade deal
- What is DRDO planning to test soon to meet the Army’s requirements?
- a) New aircraft
- b) Advanced tanks
- c) Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM)
- d) Submarines
- What is a key feature desired by Indian forces for their missile systems?
- a) Long-range capabilities
- b) Lightweight and portable
- c) High explosive power
- d) Stealth technology
- Who are the developers of the Javelin missiles?
- a) Boeing and Northrop Grumman
- b) Raytheon and Lockheed Martin
- c) General Dynamics and BAE Systems
- d) Thales and Leonardo
- What was a significant outcome of previous attempts to acquire third-generation ATGMs through global routes?
- a) Complete success
- b) Partial success
- c) No success
- d) Suspension of efforts