Javelin Missile

India recently submitted a letter of request to the United States for the co-production of Javelin anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) within India.

About the Javelin Missile

The Javelin missile is a man-portable, anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) developed by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin—two of America's major defense contractors. This missile system is designed to engage and destroy heavily armored vehicles, including main battle tanks, and is also effective against lighter military vehicles, bunkers, and helicopters.

Key Features of the Javelin Missile:

• Range: The missile has an effective range of about 2.5 km. Newer models of the missile are capable of reaching up to 4 kilometers.

• Weight: Weighs around 5.11 kg, making it lightweight enough for soldiers to carry and deploy quickly.

• Fire-and-Forget: One of the defining features of the Javelin missile is its "fire-and-forget" capability. After launch, the missile can guide itself toward the target without requiring any further input or commands. This allows the operator to immediately reposition, reducing the risk of counterattack or return fire from the enemy.

• Infrared Guidance: The missile uses automatic infrared guidance to lock onto the target, meaning that once it is fired, it can home in on the target autonomously, allowing the operator to seek cover right after launch.

• Attack Modes: The Javelin can engage targets using two modes:

  1. Direct Attack Mode: In this mode, the missile flies directly toward the target.

  2. Top Attack Mode: This mode targets the top of the vehicle, where armor is typically thinner, giving it a tactical advantage against tanks and other armored vehicles.

The Javelin system has become a symbol of modern anti-tank warfare. Its versatility and ease of use have made it one of the most popular ATGMs in use by military forces worldwide. Not only does it have the ability to destroy armored vehicles, but it also has significant utility in attacking fortifications and bunkers, making it an all-around weapon for infantry units.

Why is India Pursuing Co-Production?

India's request for the co-production of the Javelin ATGM highlights a significant shift toward self-reliance in defense production, particularly in the face of evolving security challenges. There are several key reasons why India is keen on domestic production of the missile:

1. Enhanced Defense Capabilities: India has long been focused on strengthening its defense forces, especially with the ongoing tensions in its neighborhood. Co-producing Javelin missiles would provide a powerful, cutting-edge weapon system for India's armed forces.

2. Strategic Partnership with the U.S.: The request for co-production also underscores the growing defense ties between India and the United States, aligning with India’s broader strategy of improving its military capabilities while diversifying its defense partnerships beyond traditional suppliers.

3. Make in India Initiative: This aligns with India’s "Make in India" defense initiative, which encourages local manufacturing of defense products. Producing Javelin missiles domestically would also reduce dependence on foreign imports and enhance India's defense self-sufficiency.

4. Counterbalance to Regional Threats: With rising tensions along the border, particularly with China and Pakistan, the ability to deploy advanced weaponry like Javelin missiles enhances India’s ability to defend its territory effectively.