Is the Indian Army Considering an American ` Stryker’ armoured vehicle?

Stryker armored fighting vehicles (Image:Reuters)

The Indian Army Chief, General Manoj Pandey, recently visited the headquarters of the US Army’s 1 Corps at JBLM (Washington State). During his visit, he received a detailed briefing about the Stryker armoured fighting vehicles’ air defence system. This briefing aimed to enhance understanding, especially regarding training, as the Stryker is an integral part of the US Army’s unit when participating in manoeuvres with the Indian Army.

In addition to learning about the Stryker, General Manoj Pandey also received information about the Multi Domain Task Force and Special Forces Group at the 1 Corps headquarters. The Indian Army shared pictures of the visit on its official social media account, showcasing US Army officers briefing about the Stryker with the vehicle in the background.

Last year, during the India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi, the US offered the Stryker armoured fighting vehicles’ air defence system to India, including the possibility of co-production under the Make in India initiative. Currently, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Indian Army are evaluating the proposal before making a final decision. India has not yet accepted or declined the American offer.

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Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane mentioned during a joint media briefing in New Delhi following the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue that the US offer is under consideration to meet the Indian Army’s requirements. He expressed interest in further discussions regarding co-production.

The US proposal coincides with advancements in India’s defence industry, including the development of armoured combat vehicles like the Wheeled Armoured Platform by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with private companies. These platforms have been deployed in forward areas such as Ladakh to bolster emergency response along the China border.

About Stryker

Stryker armoured fighting vehicles’ air defence system versions are designed for deployment in high-altitude regions to counter enemy aircraft threats. Manufactured by US-based General Dynamics Land Systems, Stryker vehicles are poised to enhance India’s mechanized infantry capabilities.

In recent years, the Indian Army has recognized the need for modern Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), particularly after incidents like the Galwan Valley clash. This realization has sparked interest in acquiring fast-moving APCs to navigate challenging terrains like eastern Ladakh, where China’s vehicles pose a threat.

The Stryker, capable of carrying 8-9 soldiers, is equipped with a rocket launcher and a Light Machine Gun (LMG). Its armoured body provides protection against bullets and bombs, ensuring the safety of onboard soldiers. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) and a Short-Range Air Defence System (SHORAD) to counter drone threats.

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Meanwhile, the Udhampur-based Northern Command of the Indian Army has incorporated indigenous Crystal (APV) vehicles from the Tata Group into its fleet and deployed them along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) near eastern Ladakh. Indigenous companies like Kalyani Group and L&T have also developed APVs, further bolstering India’s defence capabilities.

India’s progress in developing indigenous defence systems reflects its commitment to self-reliance and enhancing its military capabilities. The inclusion of indigenous vehicles in strategic locations like Ladakh demonstrates India’s readiness to respond effectively to security challenges along its borders.

The potential acquisition of the Stryker armoured fighting vehicles’ air defence system from the US presents an opportunity for India to strengthen its defence partnership and leverage advanced technology to enhance its security posture. Co-production under the Make in India initiative could also contribute to the country’s defence manufacturing ecosystem and promote domestic innovation.

As India evaluates the US offer and explores options for collaboration, it remains focused on modernizing its armed forces and addressing emerging threats. The synergy between indigenous developments and international partnerships underscores India’s multifaceted approach to enhancing its defence capabilities and safeguarding its national interests.