In a significant boost to India’s combat readiness and self-reliance in defence, the DRDO has unveiled advanced tracked and wheeled armoured platforms designed to tackle the challenges of modern warfare. The next-generation vehicles were showcased on April 25, 2026, at the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE) in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, by Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence (R&D) and Chairman DRDO.
Developed to meet the emerging operational needs of the Armed Forces, these armoured platforms combine speed, firepower and protection in a single, versatile package. Both variants are fitted with a fully indigenous 30 mm crewless turret, reducing risk to personnel while delivering strong offensive capability. The turret is armed with a 30 mm cannon and a 7.62 mm PKT machine gun, and it can also fire Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, making the vehicles lethal against a wide range of enemy targets.
Powered by high-performance engines paired with automatic transmission systems, the platforms have an excellent power-to-weight ratio, allowing higher speeds and smooth movement across difficult terrain. They can climb steep gradients, cross obstacles with ease, and operate effectively in demanding combat conditions.
To ensure crew safety, the vehicles offer STANAG Level 4 and Level 5 blast and ballistic protection, with modular armour that provides all-round shielding and can be adapted to mission requirements.
One of the standout features of the new platforms is their amphibious capability.
Equipped with hydro-jet propulsion, they can cross water bodies swiftly, giving commanders greater flexibility during riverine or coastal operations. The base design also allows the vehicles to be reconfigured for multiple roles, including combat support and specialised missions.
At present, the platforms incorporate around 65 per cent indigenous content, with plans to raise this figure to 90 per cent in the coming years. Manufacturing has been carried out by Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, with support from several MSMEs, reflecting the growing strength of India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Officials said the project marks another major milestone for the “Make in India” initiative in defence, showcasing how collaboration between DRDO and Indian industry is delivering world-class military platforms designed, developed and built within the country.
