What is HELINA?

Recently, Bharat Dynamics Limited secured an order worth ₹1,109.37 crore from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to supply launchers for HELINA missiles.

About HELINA

 HELINA (Helicopter-launched Nag) is a third-generation, fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

HELINA is the helicopter-launched version of the Nag missile, while its Indian Air Force version is called Dhruvastra. A man-portable ATGM variant is also available for infantry use.

It has an effective engagement range of 500 metres to 7 kilometres.

The missile is designed to destroy tanks, armoured vehicles, convoys, and reinforced bunkers, including those protected by Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA).

It is a fire-and-forget missile, allowing the crew to lock onto the target before launch, after which the missile autonomously guides itself to the target without further operator intervention.

HELINA uses a high-resolution Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker, which tracks targets based on their heat signatures, enabling accurate operations during day, night, and adverse weather conditions.

It can engage targets in both Direct Attack and Top Attack modes, with the latter striking the weaker top armour of tanks.

After launch, the missile climbs sharply and then dives onto the target from above, increasing its lethality against heavily armoured vehicles.

The missile is capable of operating effectively in mountainous terrain, enabling stand-off attacks while allowing the launch helicopter to quickly take cover, thereby reducing its exposure to enemy fire.

Source: BS

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