DRDO Unveils Indigenous Advanced Armoured Platforms with 30 mm Crewless Turret – Boost to India’s Defence Manufacturing

DRDO Unveils Advanced Armoured Platforms (Tracked & Wheeled) On 25 April 2026 , the Ministry of Defence showcased two new DRDO platforms – a tracked and a wheeled variant – at its Ahilyanagar laboratory. Designed by the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE) , the platforms aim to meet emerging operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces. Key Developments Integration of an indigenously designed 30 mm Crewless Turret with a 7.62 mm PKT coaxial gun and provision for ATGM launch. High‑power engine coupled with automatic transmission delivering a superior power‑to‑weight ratio, enabling higher speed, steep gradient negotiation and obstacle crossing. Protection up to STANAG level 4‑5 with modular ballistic and blast shields. Amphibious capability enhanced by hydro‑jets for rapid water‑obstacle crossing. Indigenous content currently at 65 % , with a roadmap to reach 90 % . Manufacturing partnership with TATA Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Bharat Forge Limited (BFL) , supported by numerous MSMEs. Important Facts The platforms feature a 30 mm crewless turret capable of firing the main gun, the 7.62 mm PKT, and launching ATGMs, offering a versatile fire‑power package. Their amphibious design, aided by hydro‑jets, allows crossing of water obstacles without external assistance, expanding operational flexibility in riverine and littoral zones. The modular protection system meets NATO‑aligned STANAG standards, ensuring survivability against kinetic and blast threats. Production is split between TASL (tracked version) and BFL (wheeled version), with a network of MSMEs contributing sub‑components, thereby strengthening the domestic defence ecosystem. UPSC Relevance Understanding these platforms is crucial for GS III (Science & Technology) and GS II (Defence) topics such as indigenisation, defence procurement, and the Make‑in‑India drive. The emphasis on indigenous content aligns with the government's policy of reducing reliance on imports and fostering self‑reliance in strategic sectors. The involvement of public‑sector labs and private industry illustrates the collaborative model promoted under the Defence Production Policy. Way Forward Further trials will validate performance across diverse terrains and climatic conditions. Scaling up production to achieve the targeted 90 % indigenous content will require deeper integration of MSME capabilities and technology transfer. The platforms are expected to be inducted into the Army and possibly the Navy’s amphibious units, enhancing India’s rapid‑deployment and border‑security posture.