HELINA is an indigenous helicopter-launched anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is the air-launched version of the Nag missile and is among India’s most advanced precision-guided anti-armour weapons.
The missile has an operational range of approximately 7 to 8 kilometres and uses an advanced Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker with Lock-on-Before-Launch capability, enabling it to identify, track and destroy enemy tanks with high precision, even in challenging battlefield conditions.
HELINA is designed for integration with indigenous combat helicopters, including the HAL Rudra and Light Combat Helicopter Prachand. Its stand-off attack capability allows helicopters to neutralise armoured targets while remaining outside the effective range of many enemy air-defence systems.
The missile carries a tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead capable of penetrating modern tanks equipped with explosive reactive armour. It is also effective against fortified bunkers and other high-value battlefield targets.
HELINA is a major milestone in India’s defence self-reliance programme, strengthening indigenous missile technology and enhancing the combat capability of the Indian Armed Forces while reducing dependence on imported anti-tank weapon systems.
