IAF has received Israeli Spike Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) anti-tank guided missiles, which can reach targets from distances of up to 30 kilometers, to improve its ability to destroy enemy targets concealed behind mountains.
According to defence officials, the Israeli Spike NLOS anti-tank guided missiles have been delivered and trials will begin soon.
The NLOS missiles will now be combined with the Russian-origin fleet of Mi-17V5 helicopters, which will be able to take out targets from great distances and will be particularly efficient against enemy objectives and assets concealed behind mountains or hills, according to the sources.
According to reports, Ukrainian forces deployed anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles provided by Western European nations and America effectively during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
When the Chinese Army positioned a considerable number of tanks and infantry combat vehicles close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) opposite the Eastern Ladakh region over two years ago, the IAF became interested in these missiles.
The Spike NLOS ATGMs have been ordered in limited quantities for the time being, with the force hoping to obtain more missiles through “Make-in-India” programs.
The air-launched NLOS ATGMs can carry out strikes on ground targets from a safe distance, causing significant damage to opposing tank regiments and halting their advances.
In light of the threat posed by China’s assertiveness two years ago, both the Indian Army and the Air Force have greatly increased their arsenals with both Indian and foreign weaponry.
