Defence application a huge opportunity for automobile sector

The domestic automobile industry has a huge opportunity in catering to Defence requirements, particularly large capacity engines, according to P Sivakumar, Outstanding Scientist and Director, Combat Vehicle Research and Development Establishment.

India has the potential to emerge as a hub for Defence exports as much as a hub for automobile production and exports, he said.

Large capacity engines in the 400 HP to 1500 HP range designed specifically for Indian conditions are needed for a wide range of applications by the Defence establishment. As of now the available engines are either imported or produced under licence with technology from Germany and Russia, he said addressing a seminar on advanced manufacturing technologies for engineering sector organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry.

CII can coordinate between industry and government to enable this partnership, he said.

Automobiles and machines for defence applications are subject to extreme conditions unique to India. While imported machines are adapted to Indian conditions, developing equipment specifically for India is important. This presents a huge opportunity for the automobile sector, he said.

A Ramasubramanian, President, Asia Motor Works, speaking to media persons on the sidelines of the conference, said, orders from the defence establishment are a huge emerging opportunity for the Indian automobile sector. These will be high value orders. But the Defence sector and private industry need to learn to understand each other and work together.

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