The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in partnership with the Kalyani Group, has officially introduced the highly anticipated second generation of the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8.
Building upon the foundational capabilities of the first-generation vehicles—which have already seen deployment by the Indian Army in high-altitude zones like Eastern Ladakh—this latest variant represents a major evolutionary leap.
The vehicle has been thoroughly transformed from a standard troop carrier into a heavily armed, fully networked multi-role combat system designed to dominate modern battlefields.
A Major Leap in Lethality
At the heart of the new WhAP’s offensive upgrades is the integration of the battle-proven 2A42 30mm autocannon, the same primary weapon utilized by the Indian Army's BMP-2 fleet.Capable of firing between 200 and 550 rounds per minute, this dual-feed cannon gives the platform devastating direct-fire power.
With access to armour-piercing and high-explosive ammunition, the vehicle can effectively neutralize a wide spectrum of threats, ranging from enemy infantry and light armoured vehicles to drones and low-flying helicopters.
To ensure sustained combat effectiveness, the primary cannon is paired with a 7.62×54mm PKT coaxial machine gun.
This secondary weapon is specifically designated for engaging dismounted troops and softer targets, ensuring that the crew can conserve valuable 30mm ammunition for heavier threats.
Additionally, the second-generation platform boasts a Remote Weapon Station (RWS) armed with a 12.7mm NSVT heavy machine gun.
Because this system is operated from within the hull, the crew remains completely protected behind the vehicle's armour while laying down heavy suppressive fire—a crucial advantage in urban combat and asymmetric warfare scenarios.
Advanced Optics and "Hunter-Killer" Capabilities
A standout feature of the upgraded WhAP is its state-of-the-art fire control network, anchored by the Safran PASEO sighting system.Both the commander and the gunner are equipped with this advanced suite, which features high-resolution day cameras, thermal imaging for night operations, and precise laser rangefinders.
Crucially, this system grants the vehicle true "hunter-killer" functionality.
In combat, the vehicle commander can independently scan the battlefield to locate and mark new targets while the gunner is actively firing upon a different enemy.
This simultaneous workflow drastically reduces reaction times and significantly increases the vehicle's lethality during intense engagements.
Next-Generation Anti-Armour and Defence Systems
To counter heavy enemy armour, the new WhAP is equipped with a twin-launcher for the indigenous Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), developed by DRDO.This system utilizes a "fire-and-forget" mechanism and top-attack profiles to destroy modern Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) far beyond the range of the vehicle's primary gun.
Notably, the launcher system can also be modified to deploy loitering munitions, offering commanders unprecedented tactical flexibility.
In terms of survivability, the vehicle integrates a specialized Saab laser warning suite. Modern anti-tank missiles and smart munitions frequently rely on lasers to paint their targets.
The Saab system instantly detects this incoming laser illumination, alerting the crew and automatically triggering the vehicle's defensive countermeasures to evade or disrupt the incoming attack.
Amphibious Mobility and Crew Protection
Despite the addition of heavy weaponry and armour, the WhAP retains its impressive amphibious characteristics.It navigates through water using advanced pump-jet propulsion pods, which are significantly quieter and more efficient than traditional external propellers.
To maintain stability and prevent water from flooding the engine or crew compartments, the vehicle features an extendable bow structure that deploys when entering the water.
Inside the cabin, the operating environment has been heavily modernized.
The driver benefits from an array of day/night electronic vision systems, utilizing digital and thermal displays to maintain operational mobility around the clock.
Should these electronic systems fail, traditional optical periscopes remain in place as a reliable backup.
The vehicle also features strategically placed firing ports and periscopes for the infantry squad travelling in the rear, allowing troops to return fire safely from inside the armoured hull.
Furthermore, redesigned, dedicated hatches for both the commander and gunner ensure that the crew can enter the vehicle rapidly or evacuate instantly during an emergency, highlighting a comprehensive approach to both combat supremacy and soldier safety.
