SOURCE: AFI
In a significant stride towards enhancing the self-sufficiency of Indian peacekeeping forces abroad, the Indian contingent deployed in Lebanon under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been equipped with Indian-manufactured Quick Reaction Force (QRF) vehicles for the first time. These vehicles, crafted by Tata Motors, are slated to be delivered to the Indian battalion on Army Day, celebrated on January 15.
Currently, around 900 Indian troops in Lebanon utilize Swedish-made Sisu vehicles, which have been provided under the UN’s dry lease system. Under this arrangement, the United Nations is responsible for supplying all necessary equipment, including vehicles and weaponry, while the troop-contributing countries like India provide the personnel. This is in contrast to the wet lease system employed in other missions where Indian battalions bring their own equipment.
The transition to using Indian-manufactured QRF vehicles marks a pivotal moment under the wet lease arrangement, where India now supplies its own equipment to its peacekeeping forces. This development not only boosts the operational capabilities of the Indian contingent on foreign soil but also underscores India’s growing prowess in defense manufacturing. It reflects a broader policy of self-reliance, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aimed at promoting indigenous defense technology and reducing dependency on foreign equipment.
Tata Motors, a stalwart in India’s automotive and defense sectors, has been recognized for producing vehicles that meet the rigorous demands of military operations. The QRF vehicles are designed to offer enhanced mobility, protection, and response capabilities, vital for peacekeeping operations in the volatile regions of Lebanon.