Indian Army Initiates Procurement of Anti-Tank Loitering Munitions for BMP-2 and T-72 Platforms

In a significant stride towards modernizing its mechanized forces, the Indian Army has announced the procurement of advanced anti-tank loitering munition (LM) systems to enhance the offensive capabilities of its BMP-2 and T-72 platforms. This move aligns with the Army's ongoing efforts to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its arsenal, ensuring preparedness against evolving battlefield threats.

Procurement Details

• The Army plans to acquire 16 systems for the BMP-2, each comprising five units, totaling 80 loitering munitions.

• Similarly, for the T-72 tanks, 20 systems will be procured, each consisting of four units, amounting to another 80 loitering munitions.

• These procurements are part of a broader initiative to equip various platforms, including T-90 tanks, BMP-2K infantry combat vehicles, and carrier mortar tracked vehicles, with canister-launched anti-armour loitering munitions (CALM) systems.

• The overarching goal is to procure 180 CALM systems to provide remote-controlled, beyond-visual-line-of-sight capabilities to mechanized infantry and armoured units, enabling them to destroy enemy armoured fighting vehicles at stand-off ranges of up to 15 km.

System Specifications and Integration

• The loitering munitions are required to be launched from canisters, with each unit and its canister not exceeding 25 kg in weight.

• The launch altitude must be up to 4,500 meters above mean sea level, ensuring operational effectiveness across diverse terrains.

• The integration of these systems into the BMP-2 and T-72 platforms is expected to enhance their lethality and survivability, providing troops with advanced capabilities to counter modern anti-tank threats.

Strategic Implications

• The acquisition of loitering munitions underscores the Indian Army's commitment to modernizing its mechanized forces and enhancing their operational effectiveness.

• By integrating these advanced systems, the Army aims to bolster its offensive capabilities, ensuring readiness to address contemporary and future battlefield challenges.

• This initiative also reflects a broader trend within the Indian military to adopt indigenous and advanced technologies, aligning with the Make in India initiative and reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.

The procurement of anti-tank loitering munitions for the BMP-2 and T-72 platforms marks a significant advancement in the Indian Army's modernization efforts. By enhancing the capabilities of these platforms, the Army is poised to strengthen its mechanized forces, ensuring they remain formidable and responsive in the face of evolving threats.