SOURCE: AFI
Larsen & Toubro (L&T), one of India’s leading defense manufacturers, has been working diligently on the development of its Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV), which is currently undergoing an upgradation process to meet the requirements outlined in the Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the Indian Army. The FICV program is part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its armored vehicle fleet and enhance the capabilities of its mechanized infantry.
The FICV is envisioned as a key platform for the Indian Army’s infantry forces, providing superior mobility, firepower, and protection in modern combat scenarios. The vehicle is designed to be a highly versatile combat platform, capable of performing a wide range of roles, including offensive operations, defensive maneuvers, combat support, and surveillance missions.
As part of the Indian Army’s modernization push, the FICV program aims to replace a significant portion of its aging fleet of infantry combat vehicles, primarily the BMP-2s, which have been in service for decades. The new generation FICVs will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and systems, ensuring enhanced protection against modern threats, superior mobility over challenging terrains, and increased firepower to support infantry troops in battle.
L&T’s FICV is undergoing crucial upgradation in line with the RFP requirements of the Indian Army, which were issued after careful assessments of the evolving battlefield needs and strategic considerations. The Indian Army’s RFP highlights the need for several critical features, which L&T is incorporating into its design:
- Enhanced Protection: The vehicle is being upgraded to offer superior armor protection against a variety of modern threats, including anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other anti-vehicle weapons. The FICV will incorporate modular armor, advanced composite materials, and active protection systems to ensure the safety of the crew and infantry deployed in the vehicle.
- Advanced Weaponry: The upgradation process involves integrating advanced weapon systems to provide the FICV with enhanced firepower. The vehicle is expected to carry a powerful 30mm automatic cannon, along with a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun. It may also be equipped with an anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system to allow the FICV to engage enemy armor at long ranges.
- Mobility and Maneuverability: The upgradation is focused on enhancing the vehicle’s mobility, enabling it to operate effectively across a variety of terrains, including urban environments, mountainous regions, and dense jungles. L&T is working to improve the FICV’s engine power, suspension systems, and transmission to meet the high-speed mobility requirements.
- Command and Control Systems: A significant aspect of the upgradation involves incorporating cutting-edge command and control (C2) systems. The FICV will be integrated with advanced communication systems, sensors, and data links, enabling seamless communication between different units and ensuring real-time battlefield awareness. This will allow commanders to make quick and informed decisions in combat.
- Crew Comfort and Efficiency: The upgradation will also focus on improving crew ergonomics, making the FICV more comfortable and efficient for extended missions. Enhanced air-conditioning systems, improved cockpit design, and better crew interfaces will be integrated to ensure optimal performance in harsh operational conditions.
L&T, with its extensive experience in defense manufacturing, is well-equipped to meet the stringent requirements of the Indian Army. The company has been instrumental in designing, developing, and manufacturing a range of defense platforms, and its expertise is reflected in the capabilities of the FICV. The upgradation process is a result of continuous collaboration with the Indian Army, defense research agencies, and various industry partners.