New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed contracts worth Rs 2,500 crore for the procurement of the Nag Missile System (NAMIS) Tracked version and 5,000 Light Vehicles for the Armed Forces.
The agreements were inked under the โBuy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured)โ category in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on March 27.
NAMIS (Tr) Weapon System: Enhancing Anti-Tank Capabilities
The contract for the NAMIS (Tr) weapon system, developed by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDO), amounts to Rs 1,801.34 crore. This system is set to significantly upgrade the Indian Armyโs Mechanised Infantry, enhancing its operational readiness in diverse combat environments.
NAMIS (Tr) is one of the most advanced anti-tank weapon systems, featuring a fire-and-forget missile equipped with a cutting-edge sighting system. This technology enhances firepower and lethality, providing a strategic advantage against enemy armored units. Its deployment is expected to revolutionize mechanised operations and strengthen Indiaโs defensive capabilities on the battlefield.
Procurement of 5,000 Light Vehicles for the Armed Forces
Alongside the NAMIS (Tr) system, the MoD has finalized contracts with Force Motors Ltd and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd for the acquisition of around 5,000 Light Vehicles. These vehicles, designed with modern technological advancements, feature enhanced engine power and can support a payload of 800 kg. Their deployment will provide increased mobility to the Armed Forces across various terrains and operational conditions, ensuring improved logistical efficiency and tactical agility.
Boost to Indigenisation and Employment Generation
Both procurements mark a significant step towards strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The contracts not only enhance Indiaโs defence infrastructure but also provide substantial opportunities for employment generation. By encouraging the participation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in components manufacturing, these projects are expected to contribute to the growth of the domestic defence industry.
A Milestone in Indiaโs Defence Modernisation
The procurement of the NAMIS (Tr) system and Light Vehicles represents a crucial advancement in Indiaโs defence preparedness. These initiatives align with the governmentโs vision to equip the Armed Forces with state-of-the-art weaponry and mobility solutions while reducing dependence on foreign imports. As India continues its journey towards self-sufficiency in defence production, such contracts will play a pivotal role in enhancing national security and operational efficiency.
With these latest agreements, the Ministry of Defence reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Indiaโs defence capabilities, promoting indigenous innovation, and ensuring that the nationโs armed forces remain well-equipped to counter emerging threats in the future.
