In a significant move to bolster its mechanized infantry, India is preparing to conduct trials for the US-made Stryker armoured infantry combat vehicles in both the challenging high-altitude terrain of Ladakh and the arid deserts. This step is part of the Indian Army’s strategy to upgrade its combat capabilities and replace the aging Russian-origin BMP-2 vehicles currently in service.
Advanced Procurement Process
The Indian Army aims to procure approximately 530 new infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). Discussions between India and the United States have reached an advanced stage, with the Stryker vehicles emerging as a strong contender. This initiative falls under the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), which promotes joint production and technology collaboration between the two nations. The project was recently discussed when US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval.
Domestic Challenges and the Need for Strykers
Despite issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) over 15 years ago and receiving responses from 15 vendors, none of the domestic manufacturers could fully meet the Army’s stringent qualitative requirements. This has led India to consider the Stryker, which, despite its limitations, offers a viable solution to meet the operational demands of the Indian Army.
Strategic Deployment Plans
The Indian Army comprises 50 mechanized infantry battalions, with 10 dedicated to reconnaissance and support roles, and 40 as standard mechanized infantry battalions. The focus is on re-equipping 10 battalions with new ICVs, replacing the current BMPs, which are tracked vehicles. The Stryker trials in Ladakh and desert regions will test its adaptability and performance in varied and extreme conditions.
Customization and Joint Production
If the Stryker is selected, the procurement will likely start with a limited off-the-shelf purchase through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) route. This will be followed by joint production in India, ensuring that the vehicles are customized to meet specific Indian operational requirements. This approach will not only enhance India’s defence capabilities but also strengthen the defence manufacturing ecosystem within the country.
Technical and Operational Considerations
The Indian Army is conducting a thorough evaluation of the Stryker’s technical capabilities, including mobility, terrain negotiation, troop protection, and lethality. One notable limitation of the Stryker is its non-amphibious nature, which may require modifications to enhance its suitability for operations in high-altitude areas such as Ladakh. The Army’s decision will be based on a comprehensive analysis of these factors to ensure the vehicles meet the operational needs.