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India-Pak conflict: How anti-tank guided missiles are shaping ground combat

Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) are precision weapons built to destroy heavily armoured targets such as battle tanks. Their long-range capability allows troops to strike without exposing themselves to direct fire. Modern ATGMs can be launched from a variety of platforms: Shoulder-fired by infantry Mounted on tripods or vehicles Launched from helicopters or drones Over 130 countries currently operate ATGMs, and they've seen extensive use in conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war. How ATGMs pierce armour: The technology behind the strike ATGMs use shaped-charge warheads that focus explosive energy in a single direction to penetrate thick armour. More advanced systems feature tandem warheads: The first charge defeats Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) The second charge penetrates the main armour underneath Many systems also offer top-attack mode, where missiles strike the turret roof—typically the weakest part of a tank. Why modern ATGMs are so deadly in warfare Can tanks survive an ATGM hit? It depends on the defences Tanks today deploy multiple defensive technologies, including: ERA (Explosive Reactive Armour): Plates that explode to neutralise shaped charges Slat or cage armour: Metal grilles that cause premature detonation Smoke screens and evasive manoeuvres: To evade targeting Electronic jamming and decoys: To mislead incoming missiles APS (Active Protection Systems): Like Israel's Trophy or Russia's Afghanit, which track and destroy incoming missiles mid-air Though no tank is invincible, these layers drastically improve survivability. Why ATGMs are critical in India's ground warfare strategy ATGMs are cost-effective, easy to deploy, and high-impact tools for infantry. They: Enable foot soldiers to take down tanks Reduce the need for artillery or air support Are ideal for both conventional and asymmetric warfare As such, India is increasing investments not only in ATGM tech, but also in countermeasures and training for troops. Global combat use: Where ATGMs have made a battlefield impact ATGMs have played key roles in modern military conflicts, including: Ukraine: Javelins and NLAWs helped halt Russian tank advances As tanks evolve, so do missiles—keeping the tank-vs-missile arms race alive.