SOURCE: AFI
In a groundbreaking development for India’s defence sector, the JCBL Group, through its defence arm Airbornics Defence & Space Pvt Ltd (ADSL), has signed India’s first-ever defence Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Slovakia. Formalized during President Droupadi Murmu’s state visit to Slovakia in August 2024, this landmark agreement, announced on April 15, 2025, positions JCBL as a key player in co-developing advanced technologies for light tanks, Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs), and Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICVs).
Additionally, the partnership opens the door for JCBL to offer the cutting-edge Eva-M2 6×6 self-propelled howitzer, a globally unique artillery system, for the Indian Army’s Mounted Gun System (MGS) tender.
The MoU marks a significant milestone in India-Slovakia defence cooperation, blending Slovakia’s expertise in armoured vehicles and artillery systems with India’s robust industrial base. Under this agreement, ADSL will collaborate with Slovakian counterparts to design and manufacture critical combat systems, including advanced turrets, Remote-Controlled Weapon Systems (RCWS), Active Protection Systems (APS), and human-machine interface (HMI) modules. These systems are tailored for complex terrains and high-altitude environments, such as India’s Himalayan borders, aligning with the Indian Army’s operational requirements.
A standout offering from this partnership is the Eva-M2 6×6, a Slovak-developed self-propelled howitzer that JCBL Group could propose for the Indian Army’s MGS tender. Described as potentially the only 6×6 155 mm/52-calibre artillery system globally equipped with an automatic loader, the Eva-M2 combines mobility, firepower, and automation in a compact package. Based on the Tatra 815 6×6 chassis, the system features an armoured cabin, ensuring crew safety in hostile environments.
The Eva-M2 underwent rigorous testing in August 2024, with its shooting capabilities, structural integrity, and mobility thoroughly evaluated. Its advanced fire control system autonomously processes firing solutions, factoring in weather conditions, ballistics, topography, and targeting data. The barrel automatically aligns with the target, and an autoloader feeds the cannon, enabling a firing rate of up to 5 rounds in the first minute and 13 rounds in 3 minutes. With a maximum range of 41 km using specialized ERFB-BB munitions, the system carries 24 rounds in automatic magazines, ready for immediate use.
The Eva-M2’s fully automated operation, conducted from within the armoured cabin, enhances crew efficiency and safety. It supports Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) firing mode, allowing multiple rounds to strike a target simultaneously, and integrates seamlessly with battalion-level command and control systems. These features make the Eva-M2 a highly competitive candidate for the Indian Army’s MGS tender, which seeks mobile, high-precision artillery systems to bolster India’s firepower along its borders.
The Eva-M2 builds on Slovakia’s rich legacy in artillery systems, drawing from technologies developed for the SpGH Zuzana 2 and earlier Eva models. Developed by Konstrukta Defence and ZTS Special, the Eva-M2 incorporates lessons from the Zuzana 2’s 155 mm/52-calibre gun and automated loading systems. Its Tatra 815 6×6 chassis ensures exceptional mobility, making it suitable for diverse terrains, from deserts to mountainous regions. The armoured cabin, equipped with filtration and ventilation units, provides protection against ballistic threats and environmental hazards, aligning with the Indian Army’s operational needs.
Slovakia’s expertise in artillery systems, combined with JCBL’s manufacturing prowess, positions the Eva-M2 as a cost-effective, high-performance solution. The system’s ability to fire NATO-standard 155 mm ammunition ensures compatibility with India’s existing artillery ecosystem, while its automation reduces crew requirements, enhancing operational efficiency.
NOTE: AFI is a proud outsourced content creator partner of IDRW.ORG. All content created by AFI is the sole property of AFI and is protected by copyright. AFI takes copyright infringement seriously and will pursue all legal options available to protect its content.