The Defence Research and Development Organisation unveiled two advanced indigenous armoured platforms in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, yesterday (25 April), marking a significant milestone in the country's defence modernisation efforts.
DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat unveiled both tracked and wheeled variants of the Advanced Armoured Platform at the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment facility.
The platforms were completed within three years of project initiation under a public-private partnership model. Tata Advanced Systems Limited developed the tracked variant, while Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge, produced the wheeled configuration.
Both platforms integrate an indigenously designed 30mm crewless turret, a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, and provisions for anti-tank guided missiles, enhancing battlefield survivability while reducing crew exposure.
The vehicles feature high-power engines with automatic transmission, delivering superior speed and manoeuvrability across challenging terrains.
They offer STANAG Level 4 and 5 ballistic and blast protection with modular armour adaptable to mission requirements.
The platforms are amphibious, capable of water operations using hydro-jet propulsion-a crucial advantage in riverine and marshy environments.
The indigenous content currently stands at 65 per cent, with plans to increase this to 90 per cent through phased localisation of key subsystems.
Kamat stated the platforms must operate in deserts and high-altitude areas with stabilised firing capabilities. Advanced features including artificial intelligence will be introduced over the next two years before user trials commence, with hopes of army induction within three years.
The modular design allows configuration for multiple operational roles, including infantry combat, reconnaissance, and support missions.
The platforms can accommodate a crew of three personnel and carry eight infantry soldiers. Prateek Kishore, Director General of Armament and Combat Engineering Systems, described the development as a major step towards self-reliance, highlighting the integrated approach combining DRDO's design capabilities with industry partners' manufacturing expertise.
The platforms are being developed as candidates for the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle programme.
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