The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Thursday (August 3) received Israeli Spike Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) anti-tank guided missiles, which can hit targets from distances of up to 30 kilometres, to improve their ability to destroy enemy targets hidden behind mountains. The Israeli Spike NLOS anti-tank guided missiles have been delivered and trials will begin soon, news agency ANI reported citing defence sources.
The NLOS missiles will now be integrated with the Russian-origin fleet of Mi-17V5 helicopters, which can take out targets from long distances and be very effective against enemy targets and assets hidden behind mountains or hills, according to the sources. According to reports, Ukrainian forces used anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles supplied by Western European nations and America effectively during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
When the Chinese Army deployed many tanks and infantry combat vehicles close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) opposite the Eastern Ladakh sector almost two years ago, the IAF became interested in these missiles. According to the ANI report, 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" initiatives.
According to the report, the air-launched NLOS ATGMs can carry out strikes on ground targets from a safe distance, causing significant damage to enemy tank regiments and halting their advances.
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In light of the threat posed by China's aggression two years ago, both the Indian Army and the Air Force have significantly strengthened their arsenals with both Indian and foreign weapons.
The top brass of the Indian Air Force has been emphasising indigenisation and supporting multiple programmes to produce such high-tech equipment and weaponry through Indian sources and industry.
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