The Indian Army has started receiving the Mahindra Armato, an armoured vehicle that was designed and developed indigenously. The first batch of 100 vehicles was handed over to the Army on June 14, 2023.
The Armato is a light strike vehicle (LSV) that is designed for reconnaissance and weapon carrier roles. It is powered by a 3.2-litre diesel engine that produces 210bhp and 420Nm of torque. The vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 120kmph and has a range of 500km.
The Armato is equipped with a remote weapon station that can be armed with a 7.62mm machine gun or a 12.7mm heavy machine gun. The vehicle also has a ballistic protection level of STANAG 4569 Level 2, which means that it can withstand small arms fire and artillery shrapnel.
The induction of the Armato into the Indian Army is a significant development, as it marks the first time that an indigenously developed LSV has been inducted into the service. The vehicle is expected to play a key role in the Army’s reconnaissance and weapon carrier roles.
The Armato is also being considered for export to other countries. Mahindra Defence Systems has already received enquiries from several foreign countries for the vehicle.
The induction of the Armato is a boost for the Indian defence industry. It demonstrates that India has the capability to develop and manufacture high-tech armoured vehicles indigenously. The vehicle is also expected to create jobs and boost the economy.
About Mahindra Defence Systems
Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra. The company was established in 2007 to manufacture and supply military vehicles to the Indian Armed Forces. MDS has a strong track record of developing and delivering high-quality armoured vehicles. The company’s products are used by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
MDS is also a leading exporter of military vehicles. The company has exported its products to over 25 countries. MDS is committed to providing the Indian Armed Forces with the best possible armoured vehicles. The company is constantly investing in research and development to develop new and innovative armoured vehicles.