Military might on roads: As the country is celebrating 78th Independence Day, several automobile companies, with help of their specialised armoured vehicles, have played a vital role to ensure smooth mobility of the armed forces. Several companies have been collaborating with the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) for combat vehicles. The technology transfers globally with automotive companies has also been a key feature of companies manufacturing armoured vehicles. India is at the forefront of some of the most suitable mobility solutions. The agility and sturdiness are the hallmarks of a combat vehicle.
Tata’s backed WhAP vehicles
The Wheeled Armoured Amphibious Platform (WhAP), developed collaboratively by the Vehicle Research and Development Establishment, a laboratory of the Defence Research & Development Organisation, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited, has recently been inducted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). This innovative vehicle, India’s first capable of operating on roads, marshy terrain, and in water, is designed for both land and aquatic missions.
The WhAP, an 8-by-8 state-of-the-art platform, excels in mountainous terrain as well. It features modern ergonomics, modular ballistic protection, and can transport 10 troops along with a driver. The vehicle underwent rigorous testing before its induction. It is fully bulletproof, mine-protected, and capable of navigating rivers against waves. Other notable vehicles from Tata Advanced Systems Limited include the Tata Safari Storme GS800 and Tata Merlin.
Mahindra Defence Systems Armado ASLV
Following the success of its Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV) Marksmen, the Indian Army has reportedly deployed the new Armado Armored Light Specialist Vehicles (ALSV). According to a recent media report citing a Ministry of Defence spokesperson, an unspecified number of these vehicles have been deployed to enhance national security.
Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS) began delivering an initial batch of 40 Armado ALSVs in June under a Rs 10.56 billion contract. The Indian Army plans to induct a total of 1,300 vehicles by 2025. These troop carriers offer ballistic and blast protection up to B7 and Stanag Level II, providing resistance against armour-piercing rounds. The Mahindra Meva Straton Plus APC is also noted for its impressive combat performance.
Midhani armoured vehicles
Hyderabad, renowned for its numerous research and development centres, continues to lead in the field of tech-driven combat vehicles. Midhani, a government enterprise based in the Telangana capital, is now supplying armoured vehicles.Midhani initially planned to manufacture at least 60 of these vehicles for state police forces. A customised version was first showcased to the police, and additional armoured vehicles are expected to be inducted subsequently.
Renault Sherpa
The Renault Sherpa Light family of tactical vehicles is widely used by various defense forces in India, including the National Security Guard (NSG) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). Designed with a 4×4 chassis, the vehicle boasts a high payload capacity. The heavily armoured version of the Renault Sherpa is employed by forces such as the CRPF for anti-terror operations, demonstrating resilience against explosions.
The NSG utilises the fully-armoured Renault Sherpa for its sensitive counter-terrorism missions. This customised vehicle is tailored to meet the specific requirements of different terrains and law and order situations.
Sherpa’s customised features, including its fully armoured body, ladders, and appendages, facilitate access to restricted areas or locations that may be dangerous due to the presence of inimical elements or improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The vehicle accommodates up to four personnel and allows operatives to engage in firing from within.
Manufactured by Renault Trucks Defence, a defence-focused subsidiary of the French automaker Renault, the Renault Sherpa highlights its strategic importance in addressing the specialized needs of India’s defense forces.
Source: Republicbiz
