India Proposes To Make Javelin ATGM With US

New Delhi: India has submitted a proposal to the United States for the co-production of the Javelin anti-tank guided missile (ATGM).

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Indian Army successfully tested its indigenously developed Akash Prime air defence system at over 15,000 feet in the Ladakh sector. Conducted by Army Air Defence and DRDO, the trials achieved two direct hits on very fast-moving target aircraft in the high altitude, rarefied atmosphere. Once deployed, the Akash Prime will form the third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence systems in the Indian Army.

Sources say that co-producing the Javelin in India will eliminate supply constraints and enhance operational efficiency. The move aligns with the Modi government’s Make In India policy in the defence sector, aiming to reduce reliance on imports.

Earlier this month, defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh stated that India plans to acquire the Javelin ATGM in two stages. First, an emergency procurement will address urgent operational requirements along the China and Pakistan borders. Simultaneously, long-term contract negotiations are underway between the two countries.

India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has signed an agreement with the Raytheon / Lockheed Martin-owned Javelin Joint Venture (JJV) to explore opportunities for joint manufacturing of the Javelin ATGWS in India. Lockheed Martin noted that this MoU will “allow the JJV to evaluate the possibility of manufacturing Javelin in India, fulfilling potential future requirements of the Indian Ministry of Defence and strengthening its anti tank capabilities.”

Weighing approximately 15.9 kg and shoulder-fired by a single soldier, the Javelin’s portability, precision, and firepower make it one of the world’s most advanced anti tank weapons. It has proven a game changer in Ukraine’s defence against Russian forces, with the US supplying over 10,000 units that have destroyed tanks, armoured vehicles, and command posts.