Govt. Eyes Public-Private Strategic Partnership (SPV) Model to Spearhead FRCV Development

The Indian Army is on the brink of a revolutionary transformation in its ground forces, spearheaded by the development of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs). These advanced tanks are poised to replace the aging T-72 fleet, promising a substantial boost to India's military capabilities.

The government's vision for this ambitious project, estimated to be worth Rs 57,000 crore, extends beyond mere replacement. It envisions a strategic shift in defense procurement through the adoption of the Public-Private Strategic Partnership (SPV) model. This innovative approach seeks to leverage the expertise of both public and private entities to expedite the FRCV development process and ensure the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies.

Under the SPV model, a government agency will lead the project, while select private sector companies will contribute their technological prowess to develop key components and technologies. This collaborative effort aims to combine the strategic vision of the government with the innovation and efficiency of the private sector, ultimately resulting in a world-class combat vehicle.

The FRCV program is designed to unfold in three phases, with the initial induction of 590 FRCVs. This phased approach not only ensures a seamless transition from the T-72s but also allows for continuous improvement based on real-world operational feedback. By the final phase, the Indian Army aims to have over 1,500 FRCVs in its arsenal, completely replacing the aging T-72 fleet.

These FRCVs are envisioned as technological marvels, integrating artificial intelligence, drone capabilities, and active protection systems to enhance situational awareness, reconnaissance, and survivability on the battlefield. The tanks will also possess "manned-unmanned teaming" capabilities, allowing for seamless coordination with other unmanned platforms. This emphasis on network-centric warfare ensures that the FRCVs can operate effectively in conjunction with other elements of the Indian military, creating a formidable and cohesive fighting force.

By adopting the SPV model and embracing cutting-edge technologies, India is poised to modernize its ground forces and strengthen its defense capabilities significantly. The development of FRCVs marks a significant step towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing and positions India as a key player in the global defense landscape.

 

[Sridhar]

Let's also get proton torpedoes while we are at it, shall we? Of course, FRCV can wait till 2050, can't it, according to what you are saying?

The guy has already disappeared. He has a mind of his own and listens to no one.

 

[Sridhar]

You’d recommend buy foreign maal, … Javelin, ATHOS, right? These are costly opiums … doesn’t help and mostly hurts.

Forces have to be cajoled to induct the indigenous weapons. That’s the only way forward. First cut maybe barely adequate, but future iterations will bridge the gap with foreign products.

You are so persistent with your propaganda that ATAG is a ‘failure’. For me, it’s a world class product and ticks all the boxes. A good businesses model where even private sector has put in serous money. I find the latest artillery spec to be rigged to give ATHOS an outside chance. A gun that not even inducted by Israel. ATAG demonstrated better mobility with the existing 15T carriages.

Israeli ATHOS price is much less than our own. Please check. And Israel has promised to setup manufacturing facility in India if the deal goes through. Logic is if the requirement is urgent and manufacturing internally will take time then best options- either import or manufacture under ToT or make the vendor manufacture in India ( Make in India) .