By moving forward with two major defense initiatives—the proposal to jointly produce the Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) system with the United States and the successful high-altitude trial of the domestic Akash Prime air defense missile in Ladakh—India has made great strides toward modernizing its military capabilities.
India formally sent the United States a Letter of Request in July 2025 to co-produce the FGM-148 Javelin ATGM. In addition to strengthening frontline firepower along the borders with China and Pakistan, this initiative seeks to address India’s long-standing deficiency in sophisticated, man-portable anti-tank systems. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has confirmed that the dual-track acquisition strategy entails:
Emergency procurement to quickly close critical operational gaps, especially along high-altitude, sensitive areas where tensions are still high.
Long-term co-production agreements, whereby Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Raytheon/Lockheed Martin’s Javelin Joint Venture (JJV) collaborate to transfer technology and develop domestic manufacturing capabilities in India.
In February 2025, BDL and the JJV signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines the framework for the Javelin missile’s local assembly, testing, and eventual large-scale production in India. This is in line with the Modi government’s “Made in India” policy, which aims to increase defense manufacturing self-sufficiency, lessen reliance on imports, and ensure vital supplies during emergencies.
Because of its top-attack profile, fire-and-forget infrared guidance, and capacity to neutralize contemporary armored vehicles up to 4 kilometers away, the Javelin system is highly regarded. It weighs about 16 to 22 kg (depending on configuration), is shoulder-fired, and has proven to be a highly effective combat weapon in a number of international conflicts, most notably in Ukraine, where it was instrumental in defeating Russian armor.
More operational readiness, better spare parts availability, shorter delivery times, and the chance to export to other regional partners are all anticipated benefits of the impending co-production.
The cost of the missile (reportedly more than $178,000 per unit), the extent of technology transfer, and the possible effects on domestic ATGM programs like the DRDO-developed MPATGM, which has not yet been introduced on a large scale, are still up for debate.
In order to ensure prompt delivery and steady availability, particularly in times of emergency, domestic production will assist India in overcoming present supply constraints and possible delays associated with export or international procurement restrictions.
Rapid Induction: When the Indian Army faces shortages of more than 68,000 anti-tank missiles and 850 launchers, local manufacturing allows for faster scaling to meet the army’s urgent need for a large quantity of advanced anti-tank missiles.
In order to optimize performance for high-altitude engagements or the intense heat that is common along India’s borders, Indian industry partners can modify the Javelin system to fit local terrain and climate.
Domestic assembly lines maximize combat readiness and sustainability in the field by enabling faster repair, more efficient access to spare parts, and streamlined logistics.
Co-production will increase India’s strategic independence and lessen its susceptibility to logistical or diplomatic setbacks by lowering its dependency on foreign arms suppliers.
In order to develop local expertise in advanced guidance, warhead, and manufacturing technologies that can be used for upcoming indigenous defense systems, collaborative production is likely to entail some degree of technology sharing.
Joint ventures with significant international defense companies will stimulate investment in the home military-industrial base, develop local industry, and generate skilled jobs.
Co-producing Javelin ATGMs supports national initiatives to increase defense self-sufficiency and establish India as a center for advanced weaponry manufacturing and export.
The Javelin is known for its top-attack trajectory, fire-and-forget targeting, and efficacy against contemporary tanks and armored vehicles—features that have been demonstrated in numerous international conflicts and are currently available to Indian forces without procurement bottlenecks.
Frontline units along delicate borders with China and Pakistan can be strengthened by the quick fielding of newly manufactured units made locally.
India will gain a dependable supply of cutting-edge anti-tank guided missiles, lessen its reliance on imports, and greatly improve its capacity to repel and defeat contemporary armored threats in a variety of operational theaters by bringing Javelin production to the nation.
India is building a strong, contemporary, and indigenous military arsenal through these endeavors that will address both short-term threats and long-term strategic requirements.
