SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
In a landmark move that underscores the deepening defense ties between Israel and India, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd (Rafael) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) announced a significant collaboration in February 2025. The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate Rafael’s cutting-edge TROPHY Active Protection System (APS) into India’s combat vehicles, marking a pivotal step in the indigenization of advanced defense technologies. This partnership not only strengthens India’s ongoing defense modernization efforts but also reinforces its commitment to achieving self-reliance in critical military technologies under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The TROPHY APS, developed by Rafael, is widely regarded as one of the most advanced active protection systems in the world. Designed to protect armored vehicles from a wide array of modern threats, TROPHY has earned a stellar reputation for its reliability and effectiveness in real combat scenarios. Unlike passive armor, which absorbs or deflects incoming threats, the TROPHY system actively intercepts and neutralizes them before they can strike the vehicle. It is the only APS globally that has been proven in live combat, having protected Israeli Merkava tanks and Namer armored personnel carriers from anti-tank missiles and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) during conflicts in the Middle East.
The system works by using a network of radar sensors to detect incoming threats, such as anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), RPGs, and even small unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Once a threat is identified, TROPHY deploys a countermeasure—typically a small explosive projectile—that intercepts and destroys the incoming munition mid-flight, ensuring the safety of the vehicle and its crew. What sets TROPHY apart is its versatility: in addition to its traditional role in countering ATGMs and RPGs, the system also boasts Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities, making it a vital asset in modern battlefields where drones are increasingly used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and attacks.
The integration of TROPHY APS promises to revolutionize the protection capabilities of India’s key armored platforms, ensuring they remain combat-effective in the face of modern threats.
- Arjun Mk2 Main Battle Tank: The Arjun Mk2, an advanced indigenous tank developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is likely to be one of the first beneficiaries of the TROPHY APS. Designed to operate in diverse terrains, including the deserts of Rajasthan and the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, the Arjun Mk2 faces significant threats from ATGMs and RPGs in contested environments. The addition of TROPHY will provide an additional layer of protection, allowing the tank to neutralize incoming threats before they can inflict damage. This enhancement will significantly increase the tank’s survivability and enable it to maintain its role as a formidable asset on the battlefield.
- K9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzer: The K9 Vajra, a 155mm self-propelled howitzer manufactured by L&T in collaboration with South Korea’s Hanwha Defense, has already proven its worth in India’s artillery modernization program. Deployed in high-altitude regions like Ladakh, the K9 Vajra provides critical fire support to Indian troops. However, its large size and relatively slower mobility make it a potential target for ATGMs, RPGs, and drones. By integrating the TROPHY APS, the K9 Vajra will gain enhanced protection against such threats, ensuring its safety and operational continuity in hostile environments.
- BMP-2 Infantry Fighting Vehicle: The BMP-2, often referred to as the “Sarath” in Indian service, forms the backbone of India’s mechanized infantry. While the BMP-2 has undergone several upgrades over the years, its armor remains vulnerable to modern anti-tank weapons, particularly in urban combat zones or during counter-insurgency operations. The integration of TROPHY APS will provide the BMP-2 with a critical defensive shield, enabling it to operate more effectively in high-risk scenarios. This upgrade will not only enhance the safety of the vehicle’s crew but also bolster the confidence of infantry units relying on the BMP-2 for fire support and mobility.
Beyond the immediate tactical benefits, the Rafael-L&T collaboration holds immense strategic significance for India’s defense ecosystem. By partnering with Rafael, L&T gains access to advanced technologies and expertise in active protection systems, which can be leveraged for future indigenous projects. The MoU also paves the way for local production of TROPHY components, creating opportunities for Indian defense firms to participate in the supply chain and build technical know-how.
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