India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has reached a crucial milestone in its ambitious Next Generation Main Battle Tank (NGMBT) project, with the design now approaching the critical design review (CDR) stage.
This development comes three years after the initial preliminary design review, marking significant progress in the development of this cutting-edge tank intended for the Indian Army's Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program.
The NGMBT, designed to meet the specific requirements outlined in the Army's RFI tender, boasts several advanced features aimed at ensuring superior performance on the modern battlefield.
Notably, the tank will be equipped with next-generation explosive reactive armor (ERA) to enhance protection against a variety of threats. Additionally, it will be powered by the DRDO-developed DATRAN 1500 HP engine, promising exceptional mobility and agility.
In recognition of the evolving threats faced by modern MBTs, the NGMBT design also incorporates advanced anti-drone technologies, a crucial element in countering the increasing prevalence of unmanned aerial vehicles in warfare.
While the DRDO's NGMBT has made significant strides, it faces stiff competition from private sector companies also vying for the FRCV contract. The Indian Army is expected to conduct a thorough evaluation of all proposals, taking into account factors such as technological advancements, cost-effectiveness, and overall suitability for the program's objectives.
The NGMBT's progress, however, underscores the DRDO's commitment to providing the Indian Army with cutting-edge, indigenously developed armored capabilities.