Has the Indian Army finalised a Rs 223 crore agreement for next-gen Tank Transporter Trailers?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Indian Army signs a Rs 223 crore deal for next-gen trailers.
- 212 50-ton Tank Transporter Trailers to enhance logistics.
- Deal aligns with Aatmnirbhar Bharat initiative.
- Trailers feature advanced transport technology.
- Supports indigenous defence manufacturing.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) On Friday, the Indian Army formalised a significant agreement worth Rs 223.95 crore with Axiscades Aerospace and Technologies Private Limited for the acquisition of 212 cutting-edge 50-ton Tank Transporter Trailers. This initiative aims to enhance logistical capabilities in combat scenarios.
These advanced trailers are equipped with hydraulic and pneumatic loading ramps, alongside steerable and liftable axles. Such features will facilitate the rapid and effective movement of tanks and various armoured vehicles across difficult landscapes, thereby improving the army's operational mobility.
The deal falls under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, reflecting the government’s commitment to the ‘Aatmnirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which seeks to bolster indigenous defence manufacturing.
This procurement is set to greatly enhance the logistical and operational efficiency of the army's field units. Furthermore, the domestic contract plays a vital role in the expansion of the local defence manufacturing industry, promising sustained job opportunities.
The Indian government is eager to support the nation’s defence sector. Earlier this month, the Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved 10 proposals for the purchase of military hardware—including missiles and electronic warfare systems—valued at around Rs 1.05 lakh crore through local sourcing.
India's indigenous defence production has reached a record high of Rs 1.46 lakh crore, with exports soaring to an unprecedented Rs 24,000 crore in 2024-25, as stated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
“Our defence production, which was just Rs 43,000 crore a decade ago, has now surpassed Rs 1,46,000 crore, with contributions exceeding Rs 32,000 crore from the private sector. Our defence exports have also seen a dramatic increase from approximately Rs 600-700 crore ten years back to a record Rs 24,000 crore today,” the minister remarked during the recent Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) annual summit.
He emphasised that the Make-in-India initiative is pivotal for national security and economic prosperity, asserting that the utilization of indigenous systems during Operation Sindoor has demonstrated India’s capability to penetrate enemy armour.
“Our weapons, systems, sub-systems, components, and services are now reaching nearly 100 countries. More than 16,000 MSMEs involved in the defence sector have become integral to the supply chain, strengthening our journey towards self-reliance while creating employment for millions,” the minister concluded.