The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Friday, 25 April unveiled two Advanced Armoured Platforms — tracked and wheeled — designed to meet evolving operational requirements of the Indian Armed Forces, according to a Ministry of Defence statement.
The platforms were developed by the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE) and unveiled by DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Defence (R&D), Samir V Kamat at the organisation’s facility in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra.
Both variants are integrated with an indigenously designed 30 mm crewless turret equipped with advanced systems to address mobility, firepower and protection requirements.
The platforms are powered by high-capacity engines paired with automatic transmission systems, enabling a high power-to-weight ratio, improved speed and enhanced gradient and obstacle negotiation capabilities.
They are designed with STANAG level 4 and 5 protection, along with modular blast and ballistic protection.
They also feature amphibious capability with hydro-jet propulsion, allowing improved water obstacle crossing and greater operational flexibility across varied terrain.
The 30 mm crewless turret along with the 7.62 mm PKT gun is configured to launch Anti-Tank Guided Missiles as well, while the base platform can be adapted for multiple combat roles.
The platforms currently have around 65 per cent indigenous content, with plans to increase this to 90 per cent in future iterations.
Manufacturing of the platforms has been undertaken by Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, with support from multiple MSMEs.
