In a significant step towards modernizing its armored forces, the Indian Army is gearing up to trial the US-made Stryker infantry combat vehicles in the challenging terrains of Ladakh and the Indian deserts.
This move comes as part of a broader initiative to replace the aging Russian BMP-2 vehicles and bolster India's defence capabilities.
Sources within the defence establishment have confirmed that discussions between India and the US regarding the procurement and potential joint production of the Stryker are in advanced stages.
The trials are aimed at assessing the vehicle's adaptability to the diverse Indian terrain, including high altitudes and arid conditions.
The Stryker, an eight-wheel-drive combat vehicle developed by General Dynamics Land Systems, offers a range of configurations and firepower options. However, its non-amphibious nature presents a potential challenge for operations in certain environments.
The Indian Army is particularly keen on replacing 10 battalions worth of BMP-2s with new infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). A previous Request for Proposal (RFP) yielded 15 responses from vendors, but none could fully meet the Army's stringent requirements, prompting the consideration of the Stryker.
Should the Stryker trials prove successful, the initial procurement would likely involve a limited purchase through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. This would be followed by joint production in India, allowing for customization to suit specific Indian operational needs and bolstering the domestic defence industry.
This development marks a potential shift in India's defence procurement strategy, with an increased emphasis on collaboration with the United States. It also highlights the ongoing efforts to modernize the Indian military amid evolving security challenges in the region.
