DRDO Unveils Two Advanced Armoured Platforms to Meet Operational Needs

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

SHYAM SOOD 

RAJOURI/DELHI, APRIL 26:-The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Friday unveiled two advanced armoured platforms—tracked and wheeled—designed to meet the evolving operational requirements of the Armed Forces.
The platforms have been developed by the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) and were unveiled by Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence (R&D) and Chairman DRDO, at the organisation’s facility in Ahilyanagar on April 25, 2026.
Both platforms are equipped with an indigenously designed 30 mm crewless turret featuring advanced systems to meet mobility, firepower, and protection requirements. Powered by a high-performance engine and automatic transmission, they offer a high power-to-weight ratio, enhanced speed, and superior gradient and obstacle negotiation capabilities.
The platforms provide STANAG Level 4 and 5 protection, with modular blast and ballistic shielding. Their amphibious capability, supported by hydro-jet propulsion, enables improved water obstacle crossing, enhancing operational flexibility in diverse terrains.
The 30 mm crewless turret, integrated with a 7.62 mm PKT machine gun, is also configured to launch Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs). The modular base design allows the platforms to be adapted for multiple combat and support roles.
Currently, the platforms feature approximately 65 per cent indigenous content, with plans to increase this to 90 per cent in the coming phases.
Manufacturing has been undertaken by Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, with support from several MSMEs, strengthening India’s growing defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The unveiling programme was attended by senior DRDO officials, including Directors General of Armament and Combat Engineering Systems (ACE) and Production, Coordination and Services Interaction (PC&SI), along with industry leaders such as the CEO & MD of TASL Pune and the Vice Chairman & Joint MD of BFL Pune.
Directors and scientists from various DRDO laboratories—including Armament Research & Development Establishment, Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment, and Research & Development Establishment (Engineers)—were also present.