India's state-owned ANVL company to produce Russian Typhoon-K 4x4 MRAP vehicles under license.

According to Rishav Gupta on July 4, 2024, India's Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (ANVL) is set to license produce the Russian K-53949 Typhoon-K, a 4x4 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle developed by Remdiesel, a subsidiary of KamAZ. This follows the completion of trials, and the project is now awaiting official orders. Official photographs show the Typhoon-K MRAP in India within a convoy, alongside other ANVL Mines Protected Vehicles (MPVs) in both 4x4 and 6x6 variants.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The K-53949 Typhoon-K is a 4x4 mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicle developed for the safe transportation of troops and military cargo in areas with a high risk of mines. (Picture source: Vitaly Kuzmin)

Therefore, the K-53949 Typhoon-K 4x4, one of the newest members of the Typhoon family of armored vehicles currently deployed by Russian Military Forces, could become a potential candidate to fulfill the Indian military's armored vehicle requirements, competing with the Mahindra ASLV and the potentially forthcoming TATA LAMV. The Indian Army is set to acquire 800 Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicles (LAMVs) to meet the needs of the Mechanised Infantry and Armoured Corps. Companies such as Ashok Leyland, Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd, Tata, and Mahindra have submitted bids. The LAMVs are expected to feature high mobility, modern protection, and the ability to carry significant payloads, all requirements potentially fitted for the Typhoon-K.

Recently, a contract worth Rs 1,056 crore ($126.5 million) was signed with Mahindra Defence Systems for 1,300 Armoured Light Specialist Vehicles (ALSVs). These vehicles will be delivered over four years and will be used to carry medium machine guns, automatic grenade launchers, and anti-tank guided missiles. The ALSVs offer comprehensive protection against small arms fire and IEDs. The Indian Army has also ordered Kalyani M4 4x4 armored vehicles for emergency procurement. These vehicles are designed for high-altitude and harsh terrain operations, featuring advanced protection and mobility. These acquisitions are part of a broader strategy to modernize and indigenize the Indian Army's vehicle fleet, which includes the production of Russian vehicles under license by AVNL.

Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), a state-owned defense public sector undertaking in India, was established in 2021 and is headquartered in Avadi, Chennai. AVNL has become a key player in India's defense sector, and is expected to roll out its Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) prototype in 2024, which boasts a 600 hp engine, automatic transmission, and STANAG level four protection. This vehicle is designed to accommodate 11 fully armed troops and is equipped with advanced weaponry including a 30 mm automated grenade launcher, remote-controlled weapon station, and fifth-generation anti-tank guided missiles. Additionally, AVNL is diversifying its portfolio by developing 4×4 protective mobility vehicles, focusing on eco-friendly power sources such as electric and hydrogen-powered powerpacks, to align with the Indian Army's modernization efforts.

The Indian company has previously manufactured several Russian-designed military vehicles, including the T-90 Bhishma Main Battle Tank. (Picture source: Indian MoD)

In addition to the Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) offers a diverse range of military products aimed at strengthening India's defense capabilities. These include the Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun, known for its superior firepower and protection, and the Armoured Recovery Vehicle (ARV), designed for the recovery and repair of damaged armored fighting vehicles on the battlefield. AVNL is also expanding its portfolio with the development of 4×4 Protective Mobility Vehicles (MPVs), similar to the Humvee used by the US Army, which are designed to operate in various challenging terrains while providing enhanced protection to personnel. Furthermore, AVNL is integrating advanced technologies into its products, such as loitering munitions, remote-controlled weapon stations, and active protection systems to ensure the highest level of combat readiness and effectiveness.

ANVL's track record with Russian-origin military vehicles adds weight to this possible new venture with the Russian industry. The Indian company has previously manufactured several Russian-designed military vehicles, including the BLT T-72, a bridge-layer tank based on the T-72 platform, the T-72 Ajeya, the T-90 Bhishma, and numerous vehicles derived from the BMP series. This extensive experience positions ANVL as a capable and reliable producer of Russian-origin armored vehicles for the Indian Army, enhancing its credibility in undertaking the production of the Typhoon-K APC.

The K-53949 Typhoon-K is a 4x4 mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) armored vehicle developed by Remdiesel, a subsidiary of KAMAZ. It is designed for the safe transportation of troops and military cargo in areas with a high risk of mines. The vehicle can also be configured for various roles including command post, ambulance, and logistics support. It features a V-shaped hull to deflect blast impacts, protecting occupants from explosions. The Typhoon-K is powered by a 350-horsepower Cummins diesel engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, achieving speeds up to 105 km/h and a range of approximately 1,000 km.

The Typhoon-K can be equipped with a remotely controlled weapon station capable of mounting various machine guns, including 7.62mm, 12.7mm, and 14.5mm calibers, as well as 30mm automatic grenade launchers. Its armor protects against 14.5mm armor-piercing rounds and can withstand explosions of up to 10 kg of TNT under the wheels and 8 kg under the floor. The vehicle includes systems such as all-around video surveillance, automatic fire extinguishing units, and optional night vision and CBRN protection. Recent upgrades have added net armor to improve defenses against rocket-propelled grenades.

Official photographs show the Typhoon-K MRAP in India within a convoy, alongside other ANVL Mines Protected Vehicles (MPVs) in both 4x4 and 6x6 variants. (Picture source: Twitter/Rishav Gupta)