What is the Nag missile, and what are its primary characteristics?

The Nag missile, also known as Prospina for its land-attack variant, is an Indian third-generation anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). It is designed to be all-weather, fire-and-forget, and features a lock-on after launch capability, allowing it to engage heavily armored targets.

What is the operational range of the Nag missile, and how does it vary by variant?

The operational range of the Nag missile varies depending on the variant. The standard land version has a range of 500 meters to 4 kilometers, while the helicopter-launched HELINA/Dhruvastra variant has a range of 7 to 10 kilometers, and the SANT variant extends this to 15 to 20 kilometers.

What is the single-shot hit probability (SSHP) of the Nag missile, and what is its shelf life?

The Nag missile boasts a high single-shot hit probability of 90%. Additionally, it is designed to have a ten-year shelf life without requiring maintenance.

How many variants of the Nag missile are currently under development or in use?

There are five variants of the Nag missile family under development or in use: a land version for a mast-mounted system, the helicopter-launched HELINA (also known as Dhruvastra), a man-portable version (MPATGM), an air-launched version with an upgraded seeker, and the Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA) variant.

What is the Nag missile's role in India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP)?

The development of the Nag missile is a key component of India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), which is managed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Which organization designed and which company manufactures the Nag missile?

The Nag missile was designed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and is manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).

When was the Nag missile declared ready for production, and when was its final trial conducted?

India's Ministry of Defence announced the missile was ready for production on July 19, 2019. The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) successfully completed the final trial of the Nag anti-tank missile using a live warhead on a dud tank on October 21, 2020.

When did the development of the Nag missile officially begin, and who was a key figure in its early development?

The development of the Nag missile began in 1988, with A. P. J. Abdul Kalam being a significant figure involved in its early stages.

What technical challenges led to delays in the Nag missile's development?

The development faced delays primarily due to issues with the Imaging Infrared (IIR)-based guidance system. Specifically, the initial seeker struggled to distinguish target heat signatures from the surrounding environment during high-temperature, long-distance engagements.

What was the estimated development cost of the Nag missile by 2008?

By 2008, the development cost for the Nag missile project had reached approximately ₹300 crore (equivalent to about ₹836 crore or US$98.9 million in 2023).

When was the Nag ATGM cleared for production, and what was its planned annual production rate?

The Nag ATGM received clearance for production in July 2009. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) planned to produce 100 Nag missiles annually to replace older second-generation missiles like the Konkours and MILAN.

What issue caused a one-year delay in the project in 2011?

In 2011, the project experienced a one-year delay because the Indian Army changed its requirements for the NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier) platform at the last minute, following a failure in summer trials where the missile couldn't hit a target at 4 km range due to seeker limitations.

What improvements were made to the Nag missile's seeker system?

Following the 2011 trials, Research Centre Imarat (RCI) developed an improved indigenous seeker with higher resolution and sensitivity. This new seeker was designed to better track and distinguish targets at long distances, addressing the limitations of the previous imported heat-seeker.

When did the Nag missile clear its final developmental trials, and what was its improved hit probability?

The Nag missile cleared its final developmental trials with the Indian Army in September 2016. Its single-shot hit probability was improved from an initial 77% to 90%.

When was the Nag missile declared ready for induction again after successful tests in desert conditions?

The missile was declared ready for induction on February 28, 2018, following successful tests where it destroyed two tanks in desert conditions.

What was the initial requirement for Nag missiles for the Army as of 2018?

As of 2018, the Indian Army had a requirement for approximately 3,000 Nag missiles for its land-launched variant.

What was the first order placed for the NAMIS (Nag Missile System), and when?

The Defence Acquisition Council cleared the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the NAMIS system on April 27, 2018. This initial contract was for 13 NAMICA carriers and 293 Nag missiles, with a cost of ₹524 crore.

What is the NAMICA, and what is its role?

The NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier) is a specialized vehicle designed to launch the Nag missile. It is a modified BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle, license-built in India, and is classified as a tank destroyer.

How many missiles can the NAMICA carry, and what are its target acquisition systems?

The NAMICA can carry a total of twelve Nag missiles, with eight ready for immediate firing and four in storage. It is equipped with electro-optical systems, including a thermal imager (TI) and a laser rangefinder (LRF) for target acquisition.

What safety and environmental systems are integrated into the NAMICA?

The NAMICA features a compact auxiliary power unit (APU) for silent operations, a fire detection and suppression system (FDSS), and a nuclear, biological, and chemical protection system (NBCPS).

What is the NAMICA-2 variant, and when was it first tested?

NAMICA-2 is a newer version of the missile launcher, first tested in 2019. It features an improved targeting system and a launcher configuration carrying six combat-ready missiles, compared to the earlier eight.

What are the key differences between the standard Nag missile and the Nag Mk2 variant?

The Nag Mk2 is an enhanced version of the land-based Nag missile. It incorporates a jet-vane control system, similar to the HELINA variant, for improved maneuverability and offers an extended range compared to the original Nag missile.

What is the HELINA missile, and what are its key features?

HELINA (Helicopter-launched Nag) is an air-launched variant of the Nag missile with an extended range of 7 km. It weighs 43 kg and can penetrate up to 800mm of armor, making it effective against tanks, especially in challenging terrains like Ladakh.

From which helicopters can the HELINA missile be launched?

The HELINA missile can be launched from twin-tube stub wing-mounted launchers on board helicopters such as the HAL Rudra and the HAL Prachand, both manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

What is the SANT missile, and what is its intended role?

SANT (Standoff Anti-tank Guided Missile) is a fourth-generation variant derived from the HELINA missile. It is designed for a long-distance airborne anti-armour role and is equipped with an electro-optical thermal imager and a millimeter-wave active radar homing seeker.

What was the outcome of the developmental tests conducted in Rajasthan in 2011?

During the summer trials in Rajasthan in 2011, the Nag missile failed to hit its target at the intended 4 km range. This failure was attributed to the imported heat-seeker's inability to distinguish targets from their surroundings in high temperatures, leading to the development of an improved indigenous seeker.

Describe the guidance system of the Nag missile.

The Nag missile utilizes a third-generation fire-and-forget guidance system. It employs an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker that locks onto the target before launch. Initial guidance is aided by area correlation, followed by centroid tracking, and terminal homing is achieved through area correlation around the centroid.

What is the purpose of the CCD camera integrated into the Nag's guidance system?

A Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) camera is integrated into the Nag's guidance system. This camera is difficult to jam and assists in target acquisition and tracking, contributing to the missile's accuracy.

How does the Nag missile maneuver after launch?

After launch, the Nag missile exhibits a characteristic upward trajectory before bending sharply towards the target. It is stabilized in flight by four foldable wings and four tail fins, with an electric actuation system controlling its flight path.

What type of warhead does the Nag missile carry, and what is its penetration capability?

The Nag missile carries a tandem-charge High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) warhead. This warhead is capable of penetrating over 900 mm of armor behind Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) and Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA).

What propulsion system does the Nag missile use?

The Nag missile is powered by a solid-propellant rocket system, consisting of a booster for initial acceleration and a sustainer motor for maintaining flight.

What was the significance of the final validation trials held on July 16, 2010?

The final validation trials held on July 16, 2010, successfully tested four missiles against both moving and stationary targets (Vijayanta tanks) at ranges between 500 and 2,600 meters. These trials validated the missile's performance and paved the way for its expected induction into the Indian Army by 2011.

What advancements were made to the HELINA variant's seeker?

DRDO planned to test the HELINA with an updated seeker featuring a 640x512-pixel resolution IIR seeker, an upgrade from the original 128x128-pixel resolution seeker, to improve performance under various conditions.

What is the role of the SANT missile in the Indian Air Force and Army Aviation Corps?

The SANT missile is developed for the Indian Air Force and Army Aviation Corps. It is designed for both lock-on after launch (LOAL) and lock-on before launch (LOBL) capabilities, enhancing its operational flexibility in engaging targets from standoff ranges.

What is the significance of the NAMICA-2 variant's public display in 2023?

The NAMICA-2 variant was publicly showcased during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi in 2023. This newer version features an improved targeting system and a launcher configuration with six combat-ready missiles, indicating ongoing modernization efforts.

What is the stated goal of the Nag missile's development in terms of replacing existing systems?

The Nag missile was intended to replace the older second-generation anti-tank guided missiles, such as the Konkours and MILAN, currently in the Indian Army's arsenal, thereby enhancing the army's anti-armor capabilities.

What was the outcome of the night trial conducted in January 2016?

In January 2016, the Nag missile successfully hit a target 4 km away during a night trial at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. This trial validated the enhanced 4-km range capability of the IIR seeker, using a Thermal Target System (TTS) to simulate an operational tank.

What was the result of the flight tests conducted on September 8, 2017?

On September 8, 2017, the DRDO successfully flight-tested the Nag missile twice against two different targets under varying conditions. These tests, along with earlier summer trials, established the complete functionality of the Nag ATGM and the NAMICA launcher system, marking the end of development trials.

What specific capabilities were demonstrated during the July 2019 trials at Pokhran?

During the July 2019 trials at Pokhran, the Nag missile was successfully tested 12 times over 11 days, covering both day and night conditions. The tests included indirect and top attack modes, and the missile achieved direct hits on all targets, demonstrating its readiness for induction.

What is the purpose of the 'lock-on after launch' (LOAL) capability mentioned for the Nag missile?

The 'lock-on after launch' (LOAL) capability allows the missile to be launched towards a general target area, and then, while in flight, re-targeted to a different or specific target identified via a data link. This enhances flexibility and effectiveness in complex combat scenarios.

What is the significance of the HELINA missile's low weight (43 kg)?

The HELINA missile's relatively low weight of 43 kg is significant because it does not impose a substantial burden on helicopters, especially in challenging conditions like the rarefied atmosphere over high-altitude regions such as Ladakh.

What is the stated penetration capability of the HELINA missile?

The HELINA missile is stated to be capable of penetrating armor up to 800mm thick, which is considered sufficient to defeat the armor of light and medium tanks commonly operated in frontier areas.

When was the SANT missile successfully test-fired, and from what platform?

The SANT missile was successfully test-fired from a Mi-35 helicopter during May-June 2017, demonstrating its air-launched capabilities.

What is the extended range of the upgraded SANT missile variant?

The upgraded version of the SANT missile is equipped with a new nose-mounted millimeter-wave (MMW) active radar homing seeker, providing it with an extended range of up to 15 to 20 kilometers.

What was the outcome of the HELINA user trials conducted on September 20, 2021?

As of September 20, 2021, the HELINA missile had completed all types of user trials. The Indian Army was prepared for its acquisition, with an expected cost of under ₹1 crore per missile.

What is the purpose of the 'Rudram-1' missile mentioned in the context of air-to-surface capabilities?

Rudram-1 is an air-to-surface missile developed by DRDO, intended for anti-radiation roles, meaning it targets enemy radar and electronic emissions.

What is the significance of the Nag Mk2 missile completing field evaluation trials on January 13, 2025?

The successful completion of field evaluation trials for the Nag Mk2 on January 13, 2025, at Pokhran Field Range, signifies its readiness for induction into the Indian Army. The missile successfully eliminated targets at both maximum and minimum ranges during these trials.

What contract was signed on March 27, 2025, related to the Nag missile system?

On March 27, 2025, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth ₹1,801.34 crore with Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL) for the procurement of 13 NAMICA carriers and 293 Nag missiles, designated as the NAMIS (Nag Missile System).

What is the role of the NAMIS system within the Indian Army's structure?

The NAMIS (Nag Missile System), equipped with NAMICA carriers and Nag missiles, is set to equip the reconnaissance and support battalions of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment.

What was the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) approved on September 15, 2023, concerning the Dhruvastra missile?

On September 15, 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved an AoN worth ₹700 crore for the procurement of over 200 units of the Dhruvastra (Air Force variant) for the HAL Rudra helicopter.

What is the primary function of the Nag missile's tandem-charge HEAT warhead?

The tandem-charge HEAT warhead is designed to defeat modern armored vehicles, including those equipped with explosive reactive armor (ERA). The first charge neutralizes the ERA, allowing the main charge to penetrate the underlying main armor.

Nag Missile Wiki: Guardian Serpent: India's Precision Strike Missile

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

System Overview

Core Identity

The Nag missile, designated 'Prospina' for its land-attack variant, is a formidable Indian third-generation, all-weather, fire-and-forget, lock-on after launch anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). It is engineered for precision engagement of heavily armored targets.

Key Attributes

Boasting a single-shot hit probability of 90%, the Nag offers exceptional accuracy. It is designed with a ten-year maintenance-free shelf life, ensuring operational readiness. Its capabilities span a significant operational range, varying by variant from 500 meters to 20 kilometers.

Developmental Framework

The Nag missile is a product of India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Manufacturing is handled by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), signifying a robust indigenous defense capability.

Developmental Trajectory

Genesis and Early Stages

Development commenced in 1988 under the visionary leadership of Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. Initial tests were conducted in November 1990. However, the project faced considerable delays, primarily due to challenges encountered with the Imaging Infrared (IIR) based guidance system.

Investment and Milestones

By 2008, the development cost had reached approximately ₹300 crore. Despite setbacks, the missile underwent successful tests in 1997, 2000, and subsequent years. The final user trials were successfully completed in July 2010, paving the way for mass production.

Production Readiness

After overcoming technical hurdles, including the need for an improved indigenous seeker, the Nag system was declared ready for induction. The Ministry of Defence announced its readiness for production in July 2019, with final trials confirming its capabilities by October 2020.

Design and Technology

Structural Composition

The Nag missile features an exterior constructed from fiberglass composites, offering high resistance to countermeasures. Its internal structure is segmented, housing the guidance system in the forward dome, sensors and warhead in the mid-section, and a booster rocket at the rear. Four foldable wings and tail fins provide flight stability.

Guidance and Control

The missile employs a third-generation IIR seeker for target acquisition. Mid-course guidance involves CCD imaging and a two-way datalink. Terminal guidance utilizes IIR homing for variants like HELINA/Dhruvastra and Millimeter-wave (MMW) Active Radar Homing for the SANT variant. A digital autopilot and electric actuation system ensure precise flight control.

Warhead and Propulsion

The Nag is equipped with a tandem-charge HEAT (High-Explosive Anti-Tank) warhead, capable of penetrating over 900 mm of equivalent rolled homogeneous armor (RHA) behind Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA). Propulsion is provided by a solid-propellant rocket booster and a sustainer motor.

Evolving Variants

NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier)

The primary launch platform is the NAMICA, a modified BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle. This tracked tank destroyer is equipped with advanced electro-optical systems, including thermal imagers and laser rangefinders. It typically carries eight ready-to-fire missiles and four in reserve.

HELINA / Dhruvastra

This is the helicopter-launched variant, extending the operational range to 7-10 km. It is designed for deployment from platforms like the HAL Rudra and HAL Prachand attack helicopters. HELINA supports both top-attack and direct-attack modes.

MPATGM & SANT

The Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) is a compact, shoulder-fired derivative. The SANT (Standoff Anti-tank Guided Missile) is an upgraded variant of HELINA, featuring enhanced range (15-20 km) and an advanced seeker for long-range airborne anti-armour roles.

Nag Mk2

Representing the next generation, the Nag Mk2 incorporates a jet-vane control system for improved maneuverability and an enhanced range. It is integrated with the NAMICA Mk-2 platform, which features a 30mm autocannon and a reduced missile loadout.

Technical Specifications

Dimensions & Mass

Mass: 42 kg (93 lb)
Length: 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
Diameter: 0.15 m (5.9 in)
Wingspan: 0.4 m (16 in)

Performance

Operational Range:
- Nag/ProspiNa: 0.5 km - 4 km
- HELINA/Dhruvastra: 7 km - 10 km
- SANT: 15 km - 20 km
Maximum Speed: 220-230 m/s (approx. 792-828 km/h)

Armament & Propulsion

Warhead: Tandem-charge HEAT (High-Explosive Anti-Tank)
Warhead Penetration: >900 mm RHA (behind ERA)
Warhead Weight: 8 kg
Engine: Solid-propellant rocket booster and sustainer motor

Testing and Validation

Land-Based Trials

Extensive developmental and user trials have been conducted across various terrains and conditions, including desert environments in Rajasthan. Key tests focused on range, accuracy, target acquisition, and warhead effectiveness against both stationary and moving targets. Initial challenges with the seeker system were overcome through indigenous development.

Air-Launched Trials

Variants like HELINA and SANT have undergone successful flight tests from helicopter platforms such as the HAL Rudra and HAL Prachand. These trials validated extended ranges, top-attack capabilities, and the performance of advanced seekers under diverse operational scenarios.

Success Metrics

Trials consistently demonstrated high accuracy, with successful hits reported at maximum ranges and under challenging conditions. The missile's ability to lock onto targets before or after launch (LOAL) and its effectiveness against modern armor have been repeatedly validated, leading to production clearance.

Production and Procurement

Clearance and Contracts

The Nag Missile System (NAMIS) received Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for procurement by the Indian Army, with contracts valued in the hundreds of crores of rupees. These contracts cover the production of NAMICA carriers and a significant number of Nag missiles.

Order Pipeline

Significant orders have been placed for various variants. For instance, a contract for 13 NAMICA carriers and 293 Nag missiles was signed in March 2025. The HELINA variant also has substantial procurement plans, indicating a strong commitment to integrating this system across different branches of the armed forces.

Related Systems

Sister Missiles

The Nag program has spawned related indigenous missile systems, including the Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) and the Standoff Anti-tank Guided Missile (SANT), further enhancing India's guided munitions capabilities.

International Comparisons

Comparable systems globally include the Israeli Spike-ER, German PARS 3 LR, and Chinese HJ-10. The Nag's development signifies India's advancement in producing sophisticated, indigenous anti-armour weaponry.

Related Portals

For broader context on India's defense industry and missile technology, consult the India portal and the Rocketry portal.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Nag Missile" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about nag_missile while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

cadre politics

synecdoche new york

td bank united states

meritocracy

internet in south africa

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Nag (missile) Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Important Disclaimer

Advisory Notice

This document has been generated by an AI and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not represent the most current or exhaustive information. It is not a substitute for official technical specifications or expert consultation.

This is not professional military or engineering advice. Always consult official documentation and qualified professionals for accurate and up-to-date information regarding defense systems and technologies. Reliance on this information is solely at the user's own risk.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Guardian Serpent

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

System Overview 🎯

🚀 Core Identity

🐍 Key Attributes

🧩 Developmental Framework

Developmental Trajectory ⚙️

⏳ Genesis and Early Stages

💰 Investment and Milestones

📜 Production Readiness

Design and Technology 🔬

🏗️ Structural Composition

💡 Guidance and Control

💥 Warhead and Propulsion

Evolving Variants 🐍

🛡️ NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier)

🚁 HELINA / Dhruvastra

🚶 MPATGM & SANT

🚀 Nag Mk2

Technical Specifications 📊

📏 Dimensions & Mass

⚡ Performance

💥 Armament & Propulsion

Testing and Validation 🧪

🏜️ Land-Based Trials

🚁 Air-Launched Trials

🎯 Success Metrics

Production and Procurement 🏭

📜 Clearance and Contracts

📈 Order Pipeline

Related Systems 🔗

➡️ Sister Missiles

🌍 International Comparisons

🏛️ Related Portals

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Important Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Advisory Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

System Overview

Core Identity

Key Attributes

Developmental Framework

Developmental Trajectory

Genesis and Early Stages

Investment and Milestones

Production Readiness

Design and Technology

Structural Composition

Guidance and Control

Warhead and Propulsion

Evolving Variants

NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier)

HELINA / Dhruvastra

MPATGM & SANT

Nag Mk2

Technical Specifications

Dimensions & Mass

Performance

Armament & Propulsion

Testing and Validation

Land-Based Trials

Air-Launched Trials

Success Metrics

Production and Procurement

Clearance and Contracts

Order Pipeline

Related Systems

Sister Missiles

International Comparisons

Related Portals

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Disclaimer

Advisory Notice