SOURCE: AFI
In a major boost to India’s indigenous defense manufacturing sector, Mahindra Automotive has inked a Rs 2,700 crore contract with the Indian Armed Forces to supply 1,986 Scorpio Pik-Up vehicles. The deal, signed with the Ministry of Defence and announced on March 28, 2025, underscores Mahindra’s growing role in supporting the nation’s military mobility needs while reinforcing the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative.
The agreement, highlighted in a report by Cartoq.com on March 30, 2025, positions Mahindra as a key player in the modernization of the Indian military’s light vehicle fleet. The Scorpio Pik-Up, a versatile single-cab variant of the iconic Scorpio lineup, is designed to meet the demanding requirements of military operations across diverse terrains. With this contract, Mahindra will deliver 1,986 units over the next few years, adding to its already substantial contribution to the armed forces’ mobility solutions.
This deal comes on the heels of previous orders, including 1,850 Scorpio Classic SUVs delivered in July 2023 and an additional 1,470 units earlier that year, bringing the total number of Scorpio variants in the military’s fleet to over 5,000. The Scorpio Pik-Up’s inclusion reflects the armed forces’ shift toward versatile, high-payload vehicles capable of supporting a range of missions, from troop transport to logistics.
The Scorpio Pik-Up is a rugged, no-nonsense vehicle engineered for durability and performance. Powered by Mahindra’s proven 2.2-liter mHawk turbo-diesel engine, it delivers 138 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, the Pik-Up offers a payload capacity of approximately 800 kilograms—ideal for carrying equipment, supplies, or personnel in challenging environments.
For military use, the Scorpio Pik-Up is likely to feature customized enhancements, such as reinforced chassis, military-spec paint (typically a matte green), and additional fittings like roof rails, fog lamps, and side steps, as seen in previous Army-spec Scorpio models. Its high ground clearance and off-road capability make it well-suited for India’s varied landscapes, from the deserts of Rajasthan to the mountainous terrains of Ladakh and the Northeast.
Mahindra’s official statement on X on March 28, 2025, expressed pride in the contract: “Honoured to drive the future of defence mobility and reinforce our commitment to an #AatmanirbharBharat. We’re proud to sign a ?270Cr+ contract with the Ministry of Defence, to supply 1986 Scorpio Pik-Ups to the Indian Armed Forces.” While the X post cited a figure of “?270Cr+,” the Cartoq.com report clarified the total value as Rs 2,700 crore, suggesting a possible typo or a reference to an initial tranche.
This contract aligns with the government’s push for self-reliance in defense production. The Scorpio Pik-Up, like its Classic counterpart, is manufactured entirely in India, leveraging Mahindra’s facilities in Chakan, Maharashtra, and Nashik. By sourcing vehicles domestically, the deal not only reduces reliance on foreign imports but also boosts local employment and industrial growth—a win-win for national security and the economy.
Mahindra’s relationship with the Indian Armed Forces dates back decades, with vehicles like the Mahindra MM540 and the Scorpio Classic serving as stalwarts in the military’s fleet. The Scorpio Classic, with over 3,300 units already delivered, has replaced aging models like the Maruti Suzuki Gypsy, offering superior power, reliability, and off-road prowess. The addition of the Scorpio Pik-Up expands this legacy, providing a lighter, more agile option with a focus on utility and payload.
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