In a significant upgrade to its air defense capabilities, the Indian Army’s Corps of Army Air Defence has finalized a contract with Thales, a UK-based defense firm, to procure the Light Weight Modular Missile (LMM) System. This strategic acquisition is particularly aimed at bolstering the army’s ability to detect and neutralize high-value drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
The LMM is a cutting-edge, man-portable missile system engineered for easy deployment in challenging operational environments, including high-altitude regions. Its advanced design allows it to operate effectively using a Laser Beam Riding guidance principle, making it resilient against evasive maneuvers by contemporary aerial platforms. The system is highly effective against a wide spectrum of aerial threats, such as aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs). It is capable of engaging targets with low infra-red signatures at ranges exceeding 6 kilometers, even in adverse weather conditions.
The missile boasts a high single-shot kill probability, attributed to its sophisticated sighting system, proximity fuze, and a powerful high-explosive warhead. This procurement follows the recent ‘Operation Sindoor,’ highlighting the urgent need for advanced solutions against evolving drone warfare tactics.
According to Thales, the LMM’s precision laser beam riding guidance system minimizes collateral damage. It is optimized for versatile deployment across air, land, and naval platforms. The missile, weighing a mere 13kg, is a highly precise weapon with an operational range surpassing 6km and a speed exceeding Mach 1.5, capable of neutralizing threats including lightly armored vehicles.