Ahilyanagar, April 25 (ANI): The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Saturday unveiled its latest Advanced Armoured Platforms—both tracked and wheeled variants—developed by the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) at its facility in Maharashtra’s Ahilyanagar.
The platforms were unveiled by Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence (R&D) and Chairman of DRDO, and are designed to meet the evolving operational requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.
According to the Ministry of Defence, both platforms are equipped with an indigenously developed 30 mm crewless turret, offering enhanced firepower, mobility, and protection. The systems feature high-power engines, automatic transmission, and a superior power-to-weight ratio, enabling high-speed performance and efficient navigation across challenging terrains.
The platforms are capable of negotiating steep gradients and obstacles, while offering STANAG level 4 and 5 protection through modular blast and ballistic shielding. They are also amphibious, with improved water-crossing capabilities supported by hydro jet systems, providing greater operational flexibility.
In addition to the 30 mm turret, the platforms are fitted with a 7.62 mm PKT gun and are configured to launch anti-tank guided missiles. Their modular base design allows for multiple operational roles depending on mission requirements.
The platforms currently feature around 65 percent indigenous content, with plans to increase this to 90 percent in the future.
Manufacturing has been carried out in collaboration with industry partners Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, along with support from several MSMEs, highlighting the growing strength of India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by senior DRDO scientists, directors general of various divisions, and representatives from industry and partner organisations. (ANI)
