Mahindra Defense will develop unmanned combat systems

Mahindra Defense will develop unmanned combat systems

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Mahindra Defense System (MDS), part of the $17-bn Mahindra & Mahindra, is all set for the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs,) unmanned ground systems (UGS) as well as unmanned naval platforms (USVs, unmanned surface vehicles) .

MDS Vice President (Strategic Business Development) Samir Advani said the company has attained full technology capability in developing UAV, UGV and USV platforms. They are designed to upgrade India’s defense capabilities. “We have developed unmanned combat systems which are full-fledged platforms and can be used in the air, on the ground, and in the deep sea,” he told India Today.

“Once we get solid orders from any customers, MDS will go for production,” he said. UAVs are sophisticated systems with lightweight frames, advanced propulsion systems, secure data links, and high technology control systems and payloads.

“For the land system, which is backed by core competencies of M&M, we make different types of armored vehicles. We have already developed the Future Main Battle Tank (FMBT). Our Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) program is running behind schedule,” he added.

According to the Deccan Herald, when it comes to naval systems, the company has developed underwater sonar to protect ships from attacks. In radars, the company has developed the latest electronic support systems and instruments.

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AUS&R2015_728x90The company came into the limelight when it made an effort to buy a majority stake in Pipavav Offshore and Defense Engineering (PODE) in a Rs 4,000-crore multi-layered deal. “Opportunities in defense are actually the need of the hour for the nation to have an independent manufacturing capability. Therefore, since 2000 onwards, M&M started investing in various defense and other allied manufacturing activities. We can claim to be the only company having presence in land, naval, and radar systems,” said Advani.

Advani said the company has three manufacturing facilities in India, and has enough in its order book to occupy itself for the coming two years. When asked about MDS’ revenue target, he said, “Once the government walks the talk on its defense procurement and production plans, I think we will be busy for the next 20 to 25 years. We are looking at strengthening our position in India and after that will think of the export market.”

MDS recently established Mahindra Emirates Vehicle Armouring Fz, based in Ras al-Khaimah, UAE. MDS is also supported on the technology front by sister companies Mahindra Aerospace, Mahindra Telephonic Integrated Systems and Tech Mahindra.