Keeping threats at bay

Font Size

Print

Feedback

Email

Discuss

Related Articles

Govt plans communications CMS to counter terrorLTTE tried to buy nuclear weapons: Report2003 Mumbai blasts: Court awards death penalty to ...No commission to probe Mumbai attacks: Govt

: The threats in the modern battlefield have changed drastically. The sight of paramilitary forces moving around the terrorism-affected Kashmir Valley or Naxalite-infested states of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Orissa in their patrolling vehicles is commonplace. Yet, inadequately protected vehicles result in the forces suffering maximum casualties on account of sniper fire or landmine blasts.

A modest beginning is being made to protect the troops deployed in hostile zones by equipping them with armoured vehicles with bullet, mine and blast proof capabilities. Shri Lakshmi Defense Solutions has introduced a range of armoured vehicles for enhancing the combat efficiency of police forces engaged in major anti-naxalite operations in the rebel strongholds across the country.

The move comes in the wake of the US Army hard-selling its eight-wheeled Stryker armoured combat vehicles to the Indian defence establishment. Produced by General Dynamics Land Systems, the vehicle comprises a thick armour suite designed to stop 14.5 mm armour-piercing machine-gun rounds and artillery fragments. Extensive computer support helps soldiers fight the enemy while reducing friendly fire incidents. A day-night thermal imaging camera allows the vehicle commander to identify the enemies as well.

But closer home, the buzz in defence circles is around the latest offerings from Shri Lakshmi Defense Solutions. The company’s director, Anil Kumar Verma, says, “We have introduced a new range of indigenously designed models based on advanced armoured vehicle technology for armed and police forces. These include ‘Dhruv’ armoured troop carrier, ‘Drona’ blast and mine-proof vehicle and ‘Viper’ fast moving attacking vehicle.”

Company officials maintain that these vehicles are equipped to aid the security forces in countering ever-increasing security threats from Naxalite groups and other terrorist outfits.

Despite a heavy payload capacity, these vehicles can smoothly run at a speed exceeding 165 kmph on a wide terrain. The side-walls, including the vehicle’s belly are made of blast protective materials including steel, which provide superior protection against heavy blasts.

Senior army officers inform that these vehicles have been designed to meet the compelling requirements of armed forces engaged in maintaining law and order in various parts of the country. However, these vehicles are fit for small unit operations in highly restricted rural and urban environments that include mounted patrols, reconnaissance and convoy protection.