INVAR Missile: Anti-Tank Guided Missile for India's T-90 Tanks

Introduction: INVAR is a laser beam-riding anti-tank guided missile used with India's T-90 main battle tanks to engage armoured targets, including vehicles protected by explosive reactive armour.

Key pointers

  • Designation: INVAR (3UBK20).

  • Weapon category: Gun-launched anti-tank guided missile.

  • Platform: T-90 main battle tank.

  • Indian procurement agency: Ministry of Defence.

  • Indian supplier: Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).

  • Guidance: Semi-automatic laser beam-riding guidance.

  • Warhead: Tandem warhead designed to improve effectiveness against armour equipped with explosive reactive armour.

  • Range: Up to approximately 5 kilometres, according to BDL's published specifications.

  • Operational role: Engage stationary and moving armoured targets.

  • Procurement update: On 13 November 2025, the Ministry of Defence signed a ₹2,095.70 crore contract with BDL for INVAR anti-tank missiles under the Buy (Indian) category.

  • Strategic significance: Supports the firepower and operational capability of the Indian Army's T-90 tank fleet.

UPSC focus: INVAR is a tank-fired anti-tank guided missile, not a shoulder-fired missile. Remember its association with the T-90 tank, BDL and laser beam-riding guidance.