The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is ready to advance the development of the Futuristic Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) but is currently awaiting the Indian Army's issuance of Preliminary Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQRs).
This crucial step follows the Defence Acquisition Council's (DAC) Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) granted on September 3, 2024, which officially recognized the need for the FRCV and paved the way for its procurement.
The FRCV represents a critical component of the Indian Army's modernization strategy, aiming to replace its aging tank fleet with a technologically advanced platform capable of meeting the challenges of future warfare. The PSQRs will define the specific operational and technical requirements of the FRCV, ensuring that its development aligns with the Army's strategic objectives.
Once the Army releases the PSQRs, the procurement process will proceed with the Ministry of Defence issuing an Expression of Interest (EoI) to solicit proposals from potential developers. Following the EoI, a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP) will be provided to shortlisted vendors or development agencies (DAs). A rigorous evaluation will then lead to the selection of DAs responsible for designing and developing the FRCV. These selected agencies will then embark on creating prototypes, with an ambitious target of delivering them within four years.
The FRCV is envisioned as a cutting-edge platform incorporating advanced technologies to enhance mobility, survivability, and firepower in modern battlefield environments. The design is expected to emphasize modularity, allowing for the integration of various weapons and subsystems to suit specific mission needs.
The DRDO, as a potential DA, has already commenced preliminary work on the program, drawing on its extensive experience in armored vehicle design and indigenous technology development. The organization's involvement is in line with India's broader push for self-reliance in defence under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The FRCV program promises to stimulate India's defence industry, fostering collaboration between DRDO, private sector companies, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The development of this advanced combat vehicle will not only bolster the Indian Army's capabilities but also establish India as a key player in the global armored vehicle technology landscape.
