New Delhi: India’s Army is moving ahead with plans to purchase 159 bullet-proof troop carriers (BPTCs) dedicated to Rashtriya Rifles units, sector and force HQs in Jammu and Kashmir plus Ladakh, boosting safe troop movement over demanding mountainous ground.
The Army put out a Request for Information (RFI) to find Indian companies equipped to carry out the initiative and supply the carriers, mandating at least 60 units produced each year post-contract, as reported by The Economic Times.
Rashtriya Rifles’ Anti-Militancy Mandate
Rashtriya Rifles, the Army’s specialized force leading counter-militancy campaigns in Jammu and Kashmir, presently relies on legacy vehicles for shifting personnel. New BPTCs promise versatility for everyday logistics and high-risk patrols, merging agility with vital shielding for troops. As per the RFI, they must haul essential kit including rifles, bullets, and radio equipment to sustain extended ops.
Velocity & Endurance Benchmarks
RFI outlines call for 80-100 kmph highway speeds and 50-75 kmph cross-country prowess. Fuel efficiency targets 350 km on plains and 300 km amid hilly rises, critical for remote patrols.
These vehicles are built for 5,000-metre peaks, thriving in the frozen frontiers of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. They handle temps from -10°C to 40°C, ensuring year-round reliability.
Armed Features and Domestic Edge
The BPTCs come equipped with firing ports and reinforced hatches for machine guns, empowering on-the-move defensive actions in volatile zones. This acquisition aligns squarely with Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to build a robust domestic defense ecosystem and cut import reliance.
