India has chosen BAE Systems Hägglunds’ BvS10 as its next articulated all-terrain tracked vehicle (AATV), marking the first deployment of the platform in Asia.
The army will acquire 18 BvS10 “Sindhu” vehicles, all troop-carrying variants, under a contract with an undisclosed amount signed with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), which will handle end-to-end production at its Armoured Systems Complex in India’s Hazira, Breaking Defense reported.
The contract includes technical and design support from BAE, the BvS10 vehicle’s original manufacturer, along with a comprehensive integrated logistics support package for initial deployment, maintenance, and life-cycle sustainment.
Deliveries are expected within two years.
Procurement Details
In 2022, the Indian Ministry of Defence sought AATVs capable of seamless operation across high-altitude, low-lying salt flats, and swampy areas.
BAE and L&T pitched the BvS10 AATV in September 2023, competed against the Indian company Prominent Comtech’s Talwar ATV, and eventually emerged as the preferred solution.
It will be built under the “Make in India” initiative, ensuring over 60 percent indigenous content, and a more secure supply chain that reduces reliance on foreign parts.
Arun Ramchandani, Senior VP & Head of L&T’s Precision Engineering & Systems, described the contract as “a significant milestone in India’s defence landscape under the Make in India initiative.”
The BvS10 Sindhu
The BvS10 Sindhu is modified to meet the Indian military’s requirements, featuring a 350-horsepower engine with a larger turbocharger.
During trials, the Sindhu demonstrated its ability to function at altitudes exceeding 18,000 feet (5,486 meters).
Its articulated twin-cab design enables it to maneuver in various terrain, including icy, rocky, muddy, and steep mountainous areas.
It can carry personnel and supplies, as well as weapons.
As an amphibious armored vehicle, the Sindhu can also traverse flooded areas or coastal waters.
Moreover, its modular design allows it to be reconfigured depending on the mission, including command and control, ambulance service, and situational awareness purposes.
