DRDO and Jeanuvs Indigenous Autoloader: India took a huge step in defence technology with a new autoloader system for its Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program. This system was developed together by Chennai-based Jeanuvs Private Limited and DRDO’s Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE). It is fully made in India and will reduce dependence on imports, lower costs, and work well in India’s deserts, mountains, and high-altitude regions.
The FRCV program is India’s next-generation main battle tank plan. DRDO is leading it to replace old T-72 tanks with around 1,770 modern units. These tanks will be stronger, faster, better protected, and more automated than older ones.
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Why Autoloader is Important
Before this, Indian tanks like the T-90 used autoloaders from Russia. This meant India was dependent on other countries for crucial parts. The new system solves this problem by being locally built. Experts say it could save 30-40% compared to foreign systems. It is also designed to match India’s military needs and combat styles.
The autoloader uses a bustle-type carousel magazine that can hold 24 rounds, from armour-piercing shells to high-explosive anti-tank ammunition. It has safety blow-out panels for the crew and hydraulic plus electric drives for precise handling. Engineers tested it in extreme heat, cold, vibration, and electromagnetic interference. The system is fault-tolerant hence it is easy to maintain or upgrade in the future.
How it Helps Tanks and Soldiers?
The autoloader can put shells into the tank gun by itself, so the crew can fire faster and stay safer. It also works with advanced fire control systems and might connect to AI targeting in the future. The FRCV program wants India’s tanks to be as quick and powerful as the newest tanks in the world.
Jeanuvs used its know-how in automation and mechatronics, and CVRDE added its strong experience with tanks and materials. They worked together under India’s DcPP system, part of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. Jeanuvs used modern simulation tools to check the designs, and CVRDE made sure the autoloader can handle over 10,000 uses without breaking.
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Production is starting at Jeanuvs’ Chennai factory with support from DRDO. Army trials are planned for 2026. Prototype FRCV tanks could have this autoloader by 2028, and full production may begin soon after.
