New Delhi, Apr 25 (NVI) :Advanced armoured platforms—tracked and wheeled—developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) were unveiled on Saturday, officials said.
The platforms, designed by the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), were unveiled by Secretary, Department of Defence (R&D) and DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat at the DRDO laboratory in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra.
Developed to meet emerging operational requirements of the armed forces, both platforms are equipped with an indigenously designed 30 mm crewless turret with enhanced mobility, firepower and protection features.
Officials said the platforms are powered by high-performance engines with automatic transmission, offering high power-to-weight ratio, superior speed, and advanced gradient and obstacle negotiation capabilities. They provide STANAG Level 4 and 5 protection with modular blast and ballistic shielding.
The amphibious platforms are capable of crossing water obstacles using hydro-jet propulsion, enhancing battlefield flexibility.
The 30 mm crewless turret is integrated with a 7.62 mm PKT gun and is configured to launch anti-tank guided missiles. The base design allows for multiple role configurations.
The platforms currently have about 65 per cent indigenous content, which is planned to be scaled up to 90 per cent.
The manufacturing has been carried out in collaboration with private sector firms Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, along with support from MSMEs, officials said.
Senior DRDO scientists, industry representatives and officials from various laboratories associated with armament and combat engineering systems attended the event.(NVI)
