SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The battlefield of armoured vehicles in India is heating up, with the 8×8 platform taking centre stage. Two domestic giants, Mahindra and Tata, have joined forces with DRDO to develop the WHAP (Wheeled Armoured Platform), aiming to secure a coveted contract from the Indian Army for 700 vehicles. However, a formidable contender stands in their way: the Stryker from the United States, offered with full Transfer of Technology (ToT).
While technical specifications are crucial, other factors come into play. DRDO claims that the WHAP is lighter and more agile than Stryker, potentially offering better manoeuvrability in confined spaces. However, Stryker’s combat experience and mature technology might translate to better operational readiness and crew training.
While technical specifications are crucial, other factors will influence the Indian Army’s decision. These include:
- Cost: The WHAP, being domestically developed, might offer a cost advantage over the imported Stryker.
- Indigenous content: Preference might be given to the platform with higher Indian content, aligning with the government’s “Make in India” initiative.
- Local support and maintenance: The availability of readily available spares and expertise for the WHAP could be a decisive factor.
The WHAP versus Stryker competition transcends a mere procurement decision. It signifies India’s growing ambition to become a leading defence manufacturer and exporter. Whether the locally developed WHAP emerges victorious or the US Stryker retains its dominance, the ultimate beneficiary will be the Indian Army, equipped with cutting-edge technology to safeguard the nation’s borders.
Key Specifications and Features:
- Dimensions:
- WHap: 8×2.99×2.35 meters
- Stryker: 7.27×2.95×2.38 meters
- VBCI: 7.6×2.98×2.3 meters
- Boxer: 7.92x3x2.3 meters
- Crew Capacity:
- WHap: 2+9
- Stryker: 3+8
- VBCI: 3+8
- Boxer: APC-7+3
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW):
- WHap: 24.5 tons
- Stryker: 20.3 tons
- VBCI: 28.5 tons
- Boxer: 38 tons
- Power-to-Weight Ratio (hp/ton):
- WHap: RCWS-25 (APC-23)
- Stryker: 17.24
- VBCI: 21
- Boxer: 20
- Configuration and Amphibious Capability:
- WHap: Amphibious with ACADA Protection, Modular Level-III
- Stryker: Non-amphibious
- VBCI: Non-amphibious
- Boxer: Non-amphibious
- Nuclear Sensor:
- WHap: Yes
- Stryker: No
- VBCI: No
- Boxer: No
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