Explained: What is Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Ammunition that the Army wants?

What is the News?

The Indian Army has issued a Request for Information(RFI) for the Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Ammunition(CALM) System.

What is a Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Ammunition(CALM) System?

CALM System is a preloaded canister with loitering ammunition or a drone. Once fired it can remain aloft for a period of time over the area of operation and when a target is sighted it can be guided down to destroy the target with the explosive payload that it carries. 

Usually, loiter ammunition carries a camera that is nose-mounted and which can be used by the operator to see the area of operation and choose targets. 

These munitions also have variants that can be recovered and reused in case they are not used for any strike.

What are the advantages of this CALM System?

The top-down attack capability of the CALM System gives it a big advantage over targets such as tanks, which are vulnerable to any attack on the top where the armour protection is weak. 

Where will the CALM System be deployed?

The Army wants to deploy the CALM System in the plains and deserts along the western borders, as well as in high altitude areas up to 16,500 feet along the northern frontier.

Source:  This post is based on the article “Explained: What is Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Ammunition that the Army wants?” published in Indian Express on 12th April 2022.