India Strengthens Defence Capabilities with Rs 2,500 Crore Contracts for NAMIS (Tr) and Light Vehicles

In a significant step towards bolstering India’s defence capabilities and promoting indigenous manufacturing, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has inked contracts worth Rs 2,500 crore for the procurement of the Nag Missile System (NAMIS) Tracked version and around 5,000 Light Vehicles for the Armed Forces. These contracts, signed under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) category, mark a major milestone in India’s self-reliance in defence production under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

NAMIS (Tracked) Weapon System: Enhancing Anti-Tank Capabilities

The contract for the NAMIS (Tr) weapon system, developed by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) of DRDO, is valued at Rs 1,801.34 crore. The system is designed to modernize the anti-tank capability of the Mechanised Infantry, significantly enhancing the Indian Army’s operational readiness in diverse combat scenarios.

NAMIS (Tr) is one of the most advanced anti-tank weapon systems, equipped with fire-and-forget technology and an advanced sighting system. This sophisticated system will provide superior firepower and increased lethality, giving India’s mechanised forces a decisive edge on the battlefield.

Light Vehicles: Boosting Mobility in All Terrains

The MoD has also signed contracts with Force Motors Ltd and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd for the procurement of approximately 5,000 modern Light Vehicles for the Armed Forces. These vehicles, designed with enhanced engine power and an 800 kg payload capacity, will significantly improve mobility across all types of terrains and operational conditions.

A Boost for Indigenisation and Employment

Both procurements align with the government’s push for indigenous defence manufacturing, reinforcing India’s position as a global defence production hub. These projects will generate significant direct and indirect employment, particularly by encouraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) involved in component manufacturing.

Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, who was present during the signing ceremony in New Delhi, lauded the move as a crucial step in modernising India’s defence infrastructure while fostering technological advancements within the domestic industry.

Empowering India’s Defence Industry

With these new contracts, India continues its journey towards self-reliance in defence production, ensuring that the Armed Forces are equipped with cutting-edge technology while strengthening the country’s industrial base. The procurement of NAMIS (Tr) and Light Vehicles marks another landmark achievement in India’s commitment to modernising its military forces while promoting Aatmanirbhar Bharat.