Ahilyanagar: In a major stride towards achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has unveiled its next-generation armoured vehicles.
Designed and developed by the Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), these state-of-the-art platforms are engineered to meet the evolving operational requirements and future warfare scenarios of the Indian Armed Forces.
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, officially flagged off the Advanced Armoured Platforms (Wheeled & Tracked) at the DRDO laboratory complex in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra.
Emphasising the strategic importance of the launch, Dr Kamat noted that this development will play a crucial role in addressing the dynamic needs of the armed forces.
The newly unveiled platforms boast enhanced firepower, mobility, and high-level protection. A standout feature is the indigenously developed 30mm crewless turret, integrated with a 7.62mm PKT gun, which is also capable of launching Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs).
Built for versatility, the vehicles are equipped with high-power engines and automatic transmissions, ensuring rapid operation even in challenging terrains. They adhere to STANAG Level 4 and 5 standards, providing robust ballistic and blast protection. Furthermore, hydro-jet technology endows them with amphibious capabilities, allowing them to cross water obstacles with ease.
Currently, these platforms boast approximately 65 per cent indigenous content, with a target to increase this to 90 per cent in the future. Developed in collaboration with private sector giants like Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, along with support from multiple MSMEs, this initiative serves as a major boost to India’s defence industrial ecosystem under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign.
Comments are closed.