DRDO launches advanced armored vehicles for combat support and deployment in Ladakh, desert, river areas

NEW DELHI: In a bid to enable indigenous production of future-proof armored vehicles, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO)defense research and development organization) The launch of advanced armored platforms (tracked and wheeled) at Ahilya Nagar in Maharashtra on Saturday will provide a huge boost to the armed forces as these vehicles can be used for infantry transport, reconnaissance and combat support. The vehicles, announced by DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamath, are designed for deployment in different terrains such as Ladakh, deserts and riverine areas.The Vikram VT21 platform is designed and developed by DRDO Vehicle Research and Development Laboratory and manufactured in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) and Bharat Forge Ltd (BFL). Several officials from TASL and BFL attended the unveiling ceremony.These platforms are essentially amphibious with improved water obstacle clearance capabilities, and hydrojet devices provide them with operational flexibility. They can carry up to 8 to 10 fully armed soldiers.Both platforms incorporate independently designed and developed 30mm unmanned turrets with advanced features that meet mobility, firepower and protection requirements, a Ministry of Defense statement said.The 30mm unmanned turret is configured together with the 7.62mm PKT gun to launch anti-tank missiles. The basic design has the ability to be configured for multiple roles. The domestic content of these armored vehicles reaches 65%, with plans to increase this to 90%.