Introduction
The Defence Research and Development Organisation has launched the Vikram VT 21 project, featuring advanced wheeled and tracked armoured platforms designed to meet the Indian Army’s requirement for a Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV).
The project aims to replace the ageing BMP-2 infantry combat vehicle fleet and strengthen India’s indigenous defence capabilities. With enhanced mobility, firepower, survivability, and digital warfare integration, Vikram VT 21 represents a major step toward modernising India’s mechanised infantry forces.
What is Vikram VT 21?
Vikram VT 21 is an Advanced Armoured Platform (AAP) developed by DRDO as a next-generation infantry combat vehicle.
The platform is designed to:
- Transport infantry troops safely
- Provide battlefield fire support
- Operate across varied terrains
- Integrate with modern network-centric warfare systems The vehicle combines:
- Advanced armour protection
- Modern weapon systems
- High mobility
- Surveillance and communication technologies
It is intended to address evolving battlefield requirements and future combat scenarios.
Two Variants of Vikram VT 21
- Wheeled Variant
The wheeled version operates on tyres and offers:
- Higher road speed
- Easier maintenance
- Better fuel efficiency
- Suitability for urban and semi-urban operations It is ideal for:
- Rapid troop movement
- Highway mobility
- Peacekeeping operations
- Tracked Variant
The tracked version operates on continuous tracks similar to tanks. Key advantages:
- Better grip on rough terrain
- Improved stability
- Superior off-road mobility
- Ability to cross trenches and uneven surfaces This variant is more suitable for:
- High-altitude regions
- Desert warfare
- Mountain operations
- Combat zones with difficult terrain
Collaborative Indigenous Development
The project has been jointly developed by:
- Vehicles Research and Development Establishment
- Bharat Forge
- Tata Advanced Systems
Several MSMEs and DRDO laboratories have also contributed. Currently:
- Around 65% indigenous content has been achieved
- The target is to increase indigenisation to nearly 90% This aligns with India’s:
- Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative
- Defence manufacturing self-reliance goals
Key Features of Vikram VT 21
- Advanced Weapon Systems
The platform is equipped with:
Indigenous 30 mm crewless turret
7.62 mm PKT machine gun
Third-generation Nag Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs)
Advantages of Crewless Turret
Improved crew safety
Reduced exposure during combat
Enhanced precision targeting
The Nag ATGM capability allows the platform to engage heavily armoured enemy targets effectively.
- High Mobility and Amphibious Capability
The vehicle is powered by:
High-capacity engine
Automatic transmission system
Mobility Features
High power-to-weight ratio
Excellent manoeuvrability
Ability to climb steep gradients
Cross-country mobility
Amphibious Capability
The vehicle can operate in water bodies using:
Hydro jets
Water propulsion systems
This enables seamless river-crossing operations during combat.
- Strong Armour Protection
The platform provides:
- STANAG Level 4 and 5 protection
These NATO standards ensure resistance against:
- Heavy gunfire
- Explosions
- Artillery fragments
- Blast impacts
The vehicle also features:
- Modular ballistic protection
- Enhanced survivability systems
- Modular Design
The Vikram VT 21 platform is modular and adaptable for multiple roles such as:
- Infantry transport
- Reconnaissance
- Command and control
- Combat support
- Medical evacuation
This flexibility improves operational efficiency and reduces logistical complexity.
Need for Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV)
The Indian Army currently relies heavily on the BMP-2 fleet, which entered service in the 1980s.
Limitations of BMP-2 Fleet
- Ageing technology
- Limited survivability
- Outdated sensors and communication systems
- Reduced effectiveness in modern warfare The changing nature of warfare demands:
- Better situational awareness
- Integrated communication systems
- Greater mobility
- Precision firepower
- Digital battlefield integration
Role in Network-Centric Warfare
The FICV concept is based on network-centric warfare. This involves digitally linking:
- Soldiers
- Vehicles
- Sensors
- Drones
- Command systems
Benefits
- Real-time information sharing
- Faster decision-making
- Improved battlefield coordination
- Enhanced situational awareness
Such integration significantly improves operational effectiveness during modern combat.
Strategic Importance for India
The Vikram VT 21 holds major strategic significance for India.
Border Security
The platform will strengthen operations along:
- China border
- Pakistan border
Rapid Deployment
Enhanced mobility supports:
- Quick troop movement
- Combined arms operations
- Faster battlefield response
Defence Self-Reliance
The project boosts:
- Indigenous defence production
- Private sector participation
- MSME involvement
- Technological innovation
Way Forward
Before induction into the Indian Army, the platform must undergo:
- Development trials
- User trials
- Army evaluation
- Operational certification
After approval, large-scale production will begin.
DRDO estimates that the process could be completed within the next three years.
Conclusion
Vikram VT 21 represents a significant advancement in India’s defence modernisation efforts. By combining indigenous technology, advanced protection systems, high mobility, and modern network-centric warfare capabilities, the platform addresses the evolving needs of the Indian Army.
The project not only enhances India’s military preparedness but also strengthens the country’s long-term goal of achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Successful induction of the Vikram VT 21 could mark a transformative step in the modernisation of India’s mechanised infantry forces.