Amidst the ongoing war-like situation between India and Pakistan, it makes sense to know about the kind of Army vehicles our indigenous carmakers produce
In this post, we take a look at the details of the top Army vehicles manufactured by Tata and Mahindra. We all know about the unfortunate situation between India and Pakistan currently. The two countries are attacking each other after India conducted Operation Sindoor in response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, 2025. It claimed the lives of 26 civilians and injured dozens. The Indian Army is defending against the attack by Pakistan for the past couple of days. For now, let us check out the kind of special vehicles Indian auto giants make specifically for our defence forces.
Top 10 Army Vehicles from Tata and Mahindra
Mahindra Marksman
The Mahindra Marksman is India’s first indigenous light bulletproof vehicle designed for urban warfare and convoy protection. Its armoured shell protects against small arms fire and grenade attacks, and it comes with gun ports and surveillance systems. Used by police, paramilitary, and military forces, it is ideal for counter-insurgency and VIP protection tasks.
Mahindra Rakshak
The Rakshak is an armoured personnel carrier built on the rugged Mahindra Bolero platform. Designed to withstand small arms fire, it is widely used by police and paramilitary forces for riot control, patrolling, and counter-insurgency operations. Its simplicity, reliability, and low cost make it an effective and scalable solution for internal security.
Mahindra Axe
The Mahindra Axe is a light tactical vehicle inspired by the Humvee and developed for India’s special forces. With high ground clearance, powerful engines, and off-road agility, it’s designed for fast and flexible missions. Its modular design supports different combat roles, though it remains limited to prototype or niche deployments.
Mahindra Straton Plus
Built on the Scorpio platform, the Straton Plus is a fortified troop transport vehicle designed for internal security and low-intensity conflict zones. It offers STANAG-level ballistic protection and can carry armed personnel safely through hostile environments. It’s also suitable for convoy escort, border patrol, and VIP transport roles.
Mahindra ALSV (Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle)
The Mahindra ALSV is a new-generation armoured vehicle designed for swift attack, reconnaissance, and deep strike operations. Compact yet well-armoured, it can mount a machine gun or grenade launcher and has off-road agility to match rapid-deployment missions. It’s been officially inducted into the Indian Army for specialized operational use.
Mahindra Scorpio GS800
The Scorpio GS800 is a military-adapted version of the civilian Mahindra Scorpio, built to meet the Indian Army’s General Service specifications. It includes enhancements like a 4×4 drivetrain, increased payload, and a rugged design for field durability. It’s primarily used for personnel movement and utility transport in demanding terrains.
Tata Light Specialist Vehicle (LSV)
The Tata LSV is a compact, agile 4×4 designed for rapid deployment in tactical missions. Built for special forces, it can be armed with light weapon systems and supports modular customization for roles such as communication, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Its mobility and protection features allow it to operate effectively in forward and hostile areas.
Tata Safari Storme GS800
The Safari Storme GS800 is a military version of the popular Tata SUV, adapted to meet the Indian Army’s GS800 (General Service 800 kg payload) requirements. It offers 4×4 capability, increased ground clearance, and rugged features suitable for various terrains. Its reliability and comfort make it a preferred choice for general utility and troop movement.
Tata Mine Protected Vehicle (MPV)
The Tata MPV is built to survive powerful landmine blasts and ambushes, making it ideal for anti-insurgency and counter-terrorism missions. It features a V-shaped hull to deflect explosive force away from the cabin, ensuring crew safety. Used extensively in Naxalite-affected areas, this vehicle improves survivability in high-threat environments.
Tata Kestrel (Wheeled Armoured Platform)
The Tata Kestrel is an 8×8 amphibious armoured combat vehicle developed jointly by Tata Motors and DRDO. Designed for modern warfare, it provides protection against small arms, landmines, and IEDs while maintaining high mobility. The Kestrel can carry up to 12 troops and features a modular design for multiple combat roles, including reconnaissance, command, and medevac.
My View
Needless to mention, the situation between the two countries is extremely tricky at the moment. With firing from both sides of the border, we can only hope that the least amount of civilians will be affected. It is clear that the local population stands to lose the most in any war or such volatile confrontational circumstances. Nevertheless, it is also imperative to fight against terrorism and tell the world that no one is willing to sit and tolerate such cowardly attacks on innocent people. In any case, we hope an appropriate resolution is reached soon and the condition on the border improves.
Also Read: Did Ratan Tata Actually Donate 2,500 Bulletproof Mahindra Scorpio SUVs to Indian Army in J&K?
