The Defence Ministry has signed a Rs 15.61 billion contract with the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) in Avadi, Chennai, to supply 47 T-72 Bridge-Laying Tanks (BLTs) to the Indian Army. These tanks will enhance the Army’s ability to ensure swift movement of mechanised forces in battle zones, supporting both offensive and defensive operations. BLTs are vital for launching bridges during military manoeuvres, making them a critical asset for mechanised forces. The deal aligns with the Indian-IDDM (Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured) category under India’s defence procurement policy, which emphasises indigensation. This project is expected to significantly contribute to India’s economy and generate employment opportunities. HVF, a unit of Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL), is one of the seven defence companies formed in 2021 after the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). These companies now produce a range of defence equipment, including ammunition, vehicles, weapons, troop comfort items, and electronics. The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and senior officials from the ministry and HVF/AVNL. It marks another step in India’s efforts to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Recent initiatives include phased import bans on various weapons and components, increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) from 49% to 74%, and creating a dedicated budget for indigenous military hardware. India aims to achieve a defence manufacturing turnover of Rs 1.75 trillion in FY 2024-25. The latest deal follows a Rs 29.6 billion contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited to equip the Navy with medium-range surface-to-air missiles, further underscoring the country’s commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities.(HT)