India Tests ‘Rudrastra’: AI-Powered Missile Hits Mark
In a significant boost to indigenous defence capability, the Indian Army has successfully completed user trials of the Rudrastra missile system. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Rudrastra is a state-of-the-art third-generation man-portable anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) that features AI-based target detection and tracking, marking a major advancement in India’s arsenal of precision strike weapons.
The trials were carried out under varied operational scenarios, including high-altitude regions and extreme cold weather, over the past few months. The latest tests in the northern sector confirmed its performance consistency across challenging terrain and weather conditions. According to an official statement, “The Indian Army has successfully carried out User Validation Trials of indigenously developed third generation, fire and forget Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) Weapon System.”
Indigenous Fire-and-Forget Technology
The Rudrastra missile represents a major leap for India’s indigenous missile technology with its ‘fire-and-forget’ capability—allowing operators to disengage immediately after launch without maintaining visual contact. The system is fully guided by imaging infrared (IIR) sensors that leverage artificial intelligence for automatic target acquisition and locking. “The ATGM System is a Man Portable, Soft Launch System, which can be used in different types of terrains by day and night,” the Army added.
Unlike earlier imported ATGMs that had limitations in extreme cold and high altitudes, Rudrastra was specifically designed keeping Indian battlefield requirements in mind. It has been put through extensive trials over the last winter, with operational teams validating its ease of use, reliability, and accuracy.
Strategic Edge in Border Zones
With the increased tensions across India’s northern borders, particularly along the Line of Actual Control with China, Rudrastra gives Indian infantry troops a tactical edge. The ability to carry and deploy the missile system in mountainous terrain means frontline soldiers can take out armored targets swiftly without exposing themselves to enemy fire. “With this, the system is now ready for Final User Evaluation Trials leading to induction into the Indian Army.”
This development aligns with India’s push towards Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing and reduces dependence on foreign suppliers for critical battlefield weaponry. The successful validation of Rudrastra adds to a growing list of domestically developed systems including the Nag, Helina, and SANT missile programs.
As India continues to modernize its military infrastructure with cutting-edge indigenous solutions, systems like Rudrastra are expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing operational readiness and deterrence along its borders.
