Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 13: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the procurement of INVAR Anti-Tank Missiles at a total cost of Rs 2,095.70 crore under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category, aimed at strengthening India’s armoured warfare capabilities.

The contract was inked in South Block, New Delhi, in the presence of defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, with senior officials from the MoD and BDL participating.

According to the MoD, the INVAR missiles will enhance the firepower and lethality of T-90 tanks, which are the backbone of India’s Armoured Regiments. The missiles are laser-guided, jamming-immune, and equipped with tandem warheads, designed to penetrate Explosive Reactive Armour.

Key features of the INVAR missile include:

• Length: 695 mm (missile) and 395 mm (throwing device)
• Calibre: 125 mm
• Range: 5,000 m
• Capabilities: Semi-automatic control, laser beam riding, ability to destroy stationary and moving targets up to 70 kmph, high hit and kill probability

The weapon system is fired from the T-90 tank gun barrel and is expected to significantly boost mechanised operations, providing a strategic advantage along India’s borders with Pakistan and China.

The procurement also reflects the Government’s push for Aatmanirbharta in defence, leveraging the expertise of Defence Public Sector Undertakings and promoting domestic defence technologies.

The contract signing comes in the backdrop of heightened India-Pakistan tensions and months after Operation Sindoor, underscoring India’s focus on strengthening operational readiness and modernising its armoured forces.