SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Army’s ambitious Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) project has taken a significant step forward, with the platform now officially named “Ranjeet.” The FRCV program aims to equip the Indian Army with a modern, next-generation main battle tank (MBT) to replace the aging T-72 fleet, aligning with India’s vision of self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The name “Ranjeet” holds historical resonance, evoking the legacy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, an iconic Indian ruler renowned for his military prowess and commitment to sovereignty—a fitting name for a combat vehicle poised to strengthen India’s defensive and offensive capabilities.
India’s T-72 tanks have served reliably for decades, but modernization is overdue as the battlefield demands rapid, versatile, and technologically advanced armored platforms. To address this, the FRCV project envisions a multi-role, versatile tank that can adapt to various combat scenarios and integrate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and network-centric warfare capabilities. The Indian Army aims to build a family of combat vehicles under the FRCV program, starting with the main battle tank but with plans to expand into light tanks, armored recovery vehicles, and more, depending on operational needs.
The choice of “Ranjeet” as the FRCV’s official name symbolizes strength, strategy, and resilience. Named after Maharaja Ranjit Singh, known for unifying the Sikh Empire and establishing a powerful military, the FRCV “Ranjeet” is expected to embody similar principles of independence, resilience, and tactical prowess on the battlefield. The FRCV “Ranjeet” aims to represent Indian ingenuity in armored vehicle design and manufacturing, supporting both defensive strategies and power projection.
The Indian Army has outlined a comprehensive set of requirements for the FRCV “Ranjeet,” focusing on cutting-edge technology, superior firepower, and survivability. Key features that the Indian Army is prioritizing include:
Network-Centric and AI-Enabled: A core aspect of the FRCV is its ability to operate within a network-centric warfare ecosystem. The “Ranjeet” will likely include integrated digital communication, situational awareness systems, and AI-assisted targeting, enabling coordination with other units and leveraging data-driven insights for tactical advantage.
Enhanced Firepower: The FRCV will likely feature a high-caliber main gun capable of firing a range of munitions, including armor-piercing and anti-personnel rounds. The Army has specified that “Ranjeet” should have the capability to engage targets beyond line-of-sight and be compatible with future-ready ammunition types.
Advanced Armor and Survivability: Survivability is a key priority in the FRCV’s design. “Ranjeet” will be equipped with modular armor that can be easily upgraded, as well as active protection systems to counter advanced anti-tank munitions, ensuring adaptability to evolving battlefield threats.
Mobility and Adaptability: India’s diverse terrain demands a tank with robust mobility and flexibility. “Ranjeet” will be designed for operations in a variety of environments, including deserts, high-altitude areas, and plains. The tank is expected to have advanced suspension, high power-to-weight ratio, and the ability to maneuver effectively in challenging conditions.
One of the defining aspects of the FRCV program is the commitment to indigenous production. The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) aims to leverage Indian defense manufacturers’ capabilities, encouraging foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to partner with local companies under Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreements. Major Indian defense companies, along with public sector units such as the Ordnance Factory Board and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), are expected to play pivotal roles in developing and producing “Ranjeet.”
Foreign OEMs have been invited to collaborate on the project, with an emphasis on technology transfer, localization, and supporting India’s strategic autonomy in defense manufacturing. Potential foreign partners include companies from Russia, Israel, and Europe, which may contribute expertise in armor, firepower, and electronics to augment indigenous capabilities.