SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
BEML Limited, a leading public sector undertaking under India’s Ministry of Defence, launched its indigenously designed and manufactured High Mobility Vehicle (HMV) 12×12 at its Palakkad complex in Kerala. Developed in collaboration with the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this state-of-the-art vehicle promises to enhance the operational mobility of India’s armed forces while advancing the nation’s “AatmaNirbhar Bharat” vision for self-reliance in strategic military assets.
The formal launch ceremony was presided over by BEML Limited’s Chairman and Managing Director, Shantanu Roy, with G. Ramamohana Rao, Director of VRDE, in attendance, alongside BEML’s functional directors and senior officials from both organizations. The HMV 12×12, engineered to tackle extreme terrains and harsh climatic conditions, represents a significant leap in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities, tailored to meet the rigorous demands of modern military operations.
The HMV 12×12 is a robust, all-terrain vehicle powered by a Bharat Stage III-compliant engine, paired with a 7-speed Allison Automatic Transmission. With a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 65 tons, it is designed to carry heavy payloads across challenging landscapes—be it rugged mountains, sandy deserts, or muddy plains—ensuring unhindered mobility for troops and equipment. Its 12×12 configuration, featuring twelve driven wheels, provides exceptional traction and stability, making it a vital asset for logistics, troop transport, and support missions in hostile environments.
Developed at BEML’s Futuristic Product Innovation and Incubation Centre (FPIIC) in Palakkad, the HMV 12×12 showcases the company’s commitment to cutting-edge innovation. The FPIIC, a hub for advanced R&D, has enabled BEML to design and produce this vehicle entirely in-house, from concept to completion, reducing reliance on foreign technology and reinforcing India’s defence industrial base. This achievement aligns with the government’s push for indigenous solutions under the “Make in India” initiative, positioning BEML as a key contributor to national security.
Speaking at the launch, CMD Shantanu Roy highlighted the significance of the milestone: “We are proud to introduce this cutting-edge, indigenous vehicle for our Defence forces. Developed at our Palakkad complex, this launch exemplifies BEML’s philosophy of ‘Beyond Possibilities.’ It’s a testament to our dedication to innovation and self-reliance in meeting the needs of India’s armed forces.” His remarks underscored BEML’s role as a trusted partner in equipping the military with world-class, homegrown solutions.
G. Ramamohana Rao, Director of VRDE, echoed Roy’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the project. “This collaboration with BEML to develop an advanced indigenous vehicle marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s Defence infrastructure. Congratulations to CMD and Team BEML for this achievement,” he said. The partnership between BEML and VRDE, a DRDO lab renowned for its expertise in vehicle technology, has yielded a product that meets stringent military standards while advancing India’s technological sovereignty.
The HMV 12×12’s versatility makes it a game-changer for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, particularly in border regions and disaster relief operations where mobility is paramount. Its ability to operate in extreme conditions—high altitudes, sub-zero temperatures, or torrential rains—ensures that defence forces remain agile and responsive, even in the most unforgiving scenarios. The vehicle’s design also allows for future upgrades, offering scalability to adapt to evolving operational needs.
For BEML, this launch builds on a legacy of supplying critical equipment to India’s defence sector, including Tatra trucks, armoured recovery vehicles, and earth-moving machinery. The HMV 12×12 adds a new dimension to its portfolio, showcasing its ability to innovate beyond traditional offerings. The Palakkad complex, where the vehicle was developed, has emerged as a hub of excellence, leveraging local talent and resources to deliver a product that rivals global benchmarks.
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