SOURCE: AFI
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has begun deploying the Wheeled Armoured Amphibious Platform (WhAP) in the Naxal-affected regions of eastern India. Developed jointly by Tata Advanced Systems Limited and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the WhAP represents a significant enhancement in mobility, protection, and operational capability for forces operating in some of India’s most challenging environments.
he WhAP is an 8×8 armoured vehicle designed to perform in diverse terrains, including unpaved roads and dense jungles. It can carry up to 12 soldiers, including the driver, and is equipped with advanced features to ensure survivability and operational efficiency.
Troops deployed in eastern India’s Naxal-affected areas have hailed the WhAP as a breakthrough platform. Its amphibious capability, all-wheel drive, and robust design make it an ideal choice for operations in remote regions with little or no road infrastructure.
Recent images of a WhAP vehicle operating in the deep jungles have gone viral, showcasing battle scars such as scratches and minor damages. These marks, far from being flaws, are celebrated as a testament to the WhAP’s ability to endure the rigors of active deployment in extreme conditions.
The vehicle has been operating seamlessly in regions where conventional platforms struggle, navigating treacherous terrains and providing vital protection to CRPF personnel engaged in counterinsurgency operations.
The induction of the WhAP represents a strategic advantage for CRPF units tasked with countering Naxal insurgency. These vehicles not only enhance mobility and protection but also allow forces to maintain a strong presence in remote areas, disrupting Naxal movements and supply chains.
Encouraged by the WhAP’s performance, the CRPF is likely to induct more such vehicles in the coming years. Additionally, its versatility could see it adapted for use in other theaters, including border patrol and peacekeeping operations.