The Hindu Business Line : M&M, BAE Systems to develop mine-proof vehicle

Mumbai, Feb. 12 Mahindra Defence, a special arm of Mahindra and Mahindra, is in talks with the London-based global defence and aerospace company BAE Systems to form a joint venture to make mine protected vehicles.

In a notice to stock exchanges, the parent company Mahindra and Mahindra said that both the companies are in discussion to jointly develop an Indian mine protected vehicle based on BAE Systems’ RG-31 mine protected vehicle.

BAE Systems has already supplied 165 mine protected vehicles — Casspir — to the Indian Army since 1999. At this year’s Defence and Naval Exhibition (DEFEXPO), a BAE Systems RG-31 will be on display on the Mahindra Defence stand, the company statement said.

When asked about the proposed investment and production volume, a Mahindra spokesperson said it is too early to talk about such details.

Nearly 600 RG-31s are in service with the US, Canada, and other forces, including the United Nations. Under the US Department of Defence’s Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) programme, 624 RG-31s have been ordered, said the announcement on the BSE posted by Mahindra.

“Mahindra Defence Systems is in the business of providing vehicle protection to defence forces,” said Brigadier Khutub Hai, Chief Executive, Mahindra Defence Systems. “Our cooperation with BAE Systems, who are leaders in this field, for joint production of mine protected vehicles is a strategic fit for our vehicle armouring business.”

The all-steel, welded armour hull of the RG-31 protects occupants from anti-tank mine detonations. With a modular interior layout the vehicle can be configured as an armoured personal carrier (APC), command vehicle, ambulance, surveillance vehicle and for many other uses. In standard APC configuration, this air-conditioned vehicle carries a crew of 8-10.

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page

Stories in this Section
Non-payment of excise duty: Notice should precede levy of penalty, rules HC

Madhucon – de-risking through subsidiary

Vivimed buys UK co for $21.15 m

GMDC emerges Gujarat’s power manager

Pyramid Saimira close to acquiring UK theatre chain company

Mahindra Lifespace SEZ in Lanka

Thermax, B&W PGG sign pact for utility boilers

M&M, BAE Systems to develop mine-proof vehicle

ENN launches digital signage in tie-up with Helius Inc

PVR ties up with Thai entertainment company

‘Business houses should take social responsibility beyond profits’

Hindujas firming up power project plans

Whyte & Mackay’s huge Scotch stocks help tide over shortage