According to recent reports, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken a significant step in enhancing its capabilities with the acquisition of Israeli Spike Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) anti-tank guided missiles. These missiles possess an impressive range of up to 30 kilometers, providing the IAF with improved capabilities to engage and neutralize enemy targets concealed behind mountains. The delivery of the Spike NLOS missiles has already taken place, and trial operations are expected to commence shortly, as per defence sources cited by news agency ANI.

To maximize their effectiveness, the NLOS missiles will be integrated into the existing fleet of Russian-origin Mi-17V5 helicopters. This combination will enable the IAF to effectively engage and neutralize enemy assets and targets located at significant distances, particularly those obscured behind mountains or hills. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has demonstrated the effectiveness of anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, with Ukrainian forces employing Western European and American-supplied weaponry to great effect.

The IAF's interest in the Spike NLOS missiles was piqued when the Chinese Army deployed numerous tanks and infantry combat vehicles close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Eastern Ladakh sector nearly two years ago. To address this challenge, the IAF has procured the NLOS missiles in limited quantities initially, while exploring the potential of bolstering its arsenal through domestic production under the "Make-in-India" initiatives.

Reports indicate that the air-launched NLOS ATGMs offer the IAF the capability to engage ground targets from a safe distance, inflicting significant damage to enemy tank regiments and impeding their advances. In response to China's aggressive posturing, both the Indian Army and the Air Force have been actively strengthening their arsenal with a mix of indigenous and foreign weapons.

With a focus on indigenization, the top leadership of the Indian Air Force has been actively supporting various programs aimed at developing high-tech equipment and weaponry within the country. This push for indigenization seeks to enhance India's self-reliance and strengthen its defense capabilities through locally sourced and produced advanced technologies.

Image source: ABP News