DRDO achieves milestone in Vikram VT-21 combat vehicle trials

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has reached a significant development milestone for its Vikram VT-21 programme. The wheeled variant of the next-generation infantry combat vehicle (ICV) successfully met operational requirements during recent trials, demonstrating mobility, trench-crossing capabilities, and amphibious performance with its turret fitted.

Developed by the Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, the programme aims to replace the Indian Army’s aging fleet of Russian-origin BMP-II vehicles. The wheeled variant is designed for enhanced road mobility and rapid movement, while a tracked variant is being developed in parallel for difficult off-road terrain.

The Vikram VT-21 features an indigenously developed 30 mm unmanned turret, a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun, and anti-tank guided missile capabilities. Following these successful tests, the Indian Army will conduct further user trials across deserts, plains, and high-altitude regions to assess performance under diverse conditions. DRDO targets induction of the platforms by 2029.