Defence ministry signs: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has inked two agreements totaling Rs 802 crore for the purchase of domestic military hardware. First, a Rs 473 crore contract was signed with Jupiter Waggons Limited to purchase 697 bogie open military (BOM) waggons. An agreement was made with M/s BEML Ltd to purchase 56 mechanical minefield marking equipment (MMME) Mark II at a total estimated cost of Rs 329 crore.
The Research Design and Standard Organisation (RDSO) created the BOM waggons, which are specialised waggons that enable the deployment of Indian Army formations. These waggons are essential for moving a variety of military equipment from peacetime locales to operating zones, including light vehicles, artillery cannons, BMPs, and technical equipment.
In addition to facilitating their movement during peacetime for military exercises and the transfer of units from one station to another, this Critical Rolling Stock will guarantee quick and simultaneous induction of units and equipment into operational areas during any conflict situation, according to the MoD’s official statement.
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Defence ministry signs
In addition, obtaining MMME is a crucial step in following international norms. At an estimated cost of Rs 329 crore, the MMME Mark II is built to travel across nation while carrying a full load of supplies, simplifying the process of marking minefields with the least amount of labour and time.
According to the government, “The equipment is based on an in-service High Mobility Vehicle having advanced mechanical and electrical systems which will reduce the timings for minefield marking during operations and will enhance the operational capability of the Indian Army.”
These contracts also support the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat, which include boosting private sector involvement in military production and supporting homegrown manufacturing. military Minister Rajnath Singh announced on New Year’s Day that the government was attempting to establish a robust “domestic defence industrial ecosystem to make India a strategic economy”. He also emphasised that this was the nation’s first decline in military imports.
Additionally, the minister said that 509 defence equipment components have been identified whose manufacture may be completed domestically. Additionally, this would strengthen India’s military manufacturing industry.
