DRDO Explores Innovative Use of Light Tank Chassis for Anti-Aircraft Gun Development

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is exploring the innovative use of its indigenously developed Light Tank chassis as the foundation for a new self-propelled anti-aircraft gun (SPAA). This move is a direct response to the Indian Army's long-standing requirement for 104 mobile short-range air defence systems.

By utilizing the Light Tank chassis, DRDO aims to provide a highly mobile and adaptable platform for the SPAA. This approach aligns with India's focus on self-reliance in defense technology and could potentially expedite the development and deployment of this critical air defense system.

The proposed SPAA variant is envisioned to be equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors and fire-control systems, enhancing its ability to detect, track, and engage aerial threats effectively. These systems include:

• Surveillance and fire-control radar
• Electro-optical targeting system (EOTS)
• Panoramic periscope
• Forward-looking infrared system (FLIR)
• Laser rangefinder (LRF)
• Thermal sight
• TV camera
• Digital fire-control system

The development of this SPAA system aims to address a significant gap in the Indian Army's air defense capabilities. The mobile short-range air defense units are crucial for protecting ground troops and assets from aerial threats, especially in modern warfare scenarios.

While the proposal is still in its early stages, the successful development of this SPAA system could mark a significant milestone for both DRDO and the Indian Army. It would not only strengthen India's air defense capabilities but also underscore the country's growing expertise in defense technology.

 

[Anonymus]

First thing where is the light tank no photos have been published yet even after tank has prototype has already been made and by April it should have been gone to trials but no solid news are coming out about it.

 

[abhinav srivastava]

It would be more mobile if it is base on WHAP.

 

[NSR]

Moving anti-aircracft gun system on small tank is a bright idea and much needed in a new paradigm shift of Drone warfare tactics evolution.
It must developed at WARP SPEED and fielded.

 

[Radha Ramanan]

it will better to use the arjun chasis , old t-72 chasis as it is heavier and will be able to take the shock recoil of the guns firing . we can see how the carrier recoils back wards when the tunguska canon fires. There will be more space place various systems on a bigger chasis

 

[Boomeranger]

it will better to use the arjun chasis , old t-72 chasis as it is heavier and will be able to take the shock recoil of the guns firing . we can see how the carrier recoils back wards when the tunguska canon fires. There will be more space place various systems on a bigger chasis

No BMP2 is THE BEST option as even Trishul2 is now on BMP2... Just copying Stryker that' all..

 

[bonito]

Moving anti-aircracft gun system on small tank is a bright idea and much needed in a new paradigm shift of Drone warfare tactics evolution.
It must developed at WARP SPEED and fielded.

SPAA based on tank is there since first world war

 

[Sandeep]

This will be ideal to use in high altitude, rough and steep mountain ranges as it allows us to mobilise much faster, change positions more quickly and climb to the high ground so we can position the SAM to areas that benefit us or where they can't use a very long range radar or missile. Developing a tracked version will allow us to use the vehicle on any ground terrain in any weather conditions and the lower weight will allow us to install a long range radar and SAM as much as possible. At the same time these can be ideal by providing a continuous and active air defence system while our corps or unit is moving positions.

At the same time we should also look to see if we can develop a light 105mm self propelled artillery gun as it will strengthen the current heavy K9 Vajra guns we have and the light version can certainly help in mountain warfare or even in general. It wouldn't take long to modify the tank to a self propelled artillery gun and this will strength our military industry as the tank or artillery can be built entirely in India using our indigenous technology and different types of ammunition from missiles, ATGM, CIWS, shells etc.

 

[Rajesh]

Utilisation of resources. Good move but fast track the project also a modified system based on this SPAD -GMS can be used for ships and coastguard vessels .

 

[Alok Gupta]

It is high time India also developed such a system. The Chinese already have such an air defense system and can take out Indian attack helicopters attacking PLA battalions

 

[5powa]

This looks like Korean Biho , hopefully not a rebranding.

 

[Rick Golder]

This looks like Korean Biho , hopefully not a rebranding.

The chasis is indigenously developed by DRDO and manufactured by L&T. DrDO have clarified that it's not an Korean rebranded hull.