In a quick and measured reaction to the recent terror strike in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, the Indian Army has initiated targeted attacks across the Line of Control (Loc) with Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMS). The attacks, defence sources said on Friday, destroyed several Pakistani military outposts, escalating an already tense border situation.
Why the Retaliation Was Swift and Precise
The Army deployment of ATGMS followed a matter of days after 26 civilians were butchered in one of the worst Kashmir attacks in more than two decades. The airstrikes are being conducted as part of an ongoing operational campaign. The strike included air attacks under Operation Sindoor that bombed terror camps across Pakistan and Pok.
Official sources also attested to the fact that India successfully downed more than 50 drones en route to sensitive military installations at Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur.
What are ATGMs and Why Do They Matter?
Anti-tank guided Missiles are specifically made to blow up heavily armoured vehicles, especially tanks. In contrast to previous systems, these missiles are “guided,” which means that they can target something and course-correct during the air. This greatly enhances accuracy and enables soldiers to attack from a safe distance.
ATGMS can be fired from many different platforms — shoulder firings, tripods, vehicles, or aircraft. Their versatility and accuracy have made them imperative in defensive and offensive military tactics.
How ATGMS Works
ATGMS depend mostly on a shaped charge — a concentrated explosive that can penetrate thick tank armour. Newer versions employ tandem warheads. The initial blast destroys protective systems such as explosive reactive armour (ERA), and the second enters the tank’s core.
A few systems provide a ‘top-attack’ option, attacking a tank’s thinner upper armour. Others are fitted with dual-mode seekers that enhance target tracking, even in sophisticated combat conditions.
Can Tanks Defend Themselves?
Tanks are not completely defenceless against ATGMS. Some employ slat armour or reactive plates that initiate premature detonation of incoming missiles. Advanced defence systems such as Israel’s Trophy are even capable of intercepting ATGMS mid-air. Tanks also employ smokescreens or fire-and-forget options to come out of these engagements alive.
But as India’s retaliation indicates, even the most sophisticated tank defence mechanisms are being tested by the increasing accuracy and range of latest-generation ATGMs.
Global Spread and Future Outlook
ATGMS are currently in operation in more than 130 countries and have become a standard element in such conflicts as the Russia-Ukraine war. India’s recent employment serves to highlight not only the missile’s tactical value but also the evolving nature of combat engagement.
As with the Indian Army indicating its preparedness and capability to counter any provocation, the employment of ATGMS gives a stark message — the country will never shy away from protecting its sovereignty using precise firepower.
