Army Day 2024 Special: Top 10 Four Wheel Vehicles of Indian Army That You Must Know About

The Indian Army, known for its courage and commitment to safeguarding the nation, relies on a diverse fleet of 4-wheeled vehicles, Jeeps & SUVs to navigate the challenging terrains they operate in. From the iconic classics to the modern all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), the army's vehicular arsenal plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of military operations. Let's take a detailed look at the top-10 four wheel vehicles that contribute to the Indian Army's mobility and efficiency.

Nissan Patrol Jonga:

Manufactured for the Indian Army by Vehicle Factory Jabalpur under an exclusive licence by Nissan, the Jonga, which stands for Jabalpur Ordnance And Guncarriage Assembly, served faithfully from 1969 to 1999. Its robust design and off-road capabilities made it a loyal companion in various operations. It was later phased out and replaced by the Mahindra MM540 jeep. The Jonga came with a 3956 cc in-line six cylinder petrol engine capable of producing 112 PS of power. Also, it came paired with a 3 speed manual gearbox.

Maruti Gypsy:

Produced from 1985 to 2018, Maruti's Gypsy was a four wheel drive off-road capable 2 door vehicle from Maruti Suzuki that came with selectable 4WD as standard and an option for soft top or hard top roof. It has been the most popular choice for the Indian Army, paramilitary & police forces of India because of its capability, durability, versatility and reliability. Although its production for the general public came to an end in 2018 due to stricter emission & crash safety norms, Maruti Suzuki is still producing the Gypsy in batches exclusively for the Indian Armed Forces.

Mahindra Rakshak:

This light utility military vehicle is designed by Mahindra Defense Systems primarily for the Indian Army. With a light machine gun mount on its roof, the Rakshak has proved its mettle in anti terrorism and counter insurgency missions across India. Based on the chassis of the Mahindra Commander jeep, the 4X4 capable UV has remained in production since 2000. However, it's now being replaced by the Mahindra Armored Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV).

Mahindra Scorpio Classic:

In January 2023, Mahindra delivered 1,470 units of Scorpio Classic to the Indian Army. Also, in July 2023, the Indian Army again placed an order of 1,850 units of Scorpio Classic, taking the total count to 3,300 units. The Scorpio that Mahindra is supplying to the Army gets a special army specified olive green (military green) paint with a matte finish, standard 4WD tech, side steps, roof rails, flexible reading spot lamps in the cabin, tow hooks, blackout driving lights, blackout marker lights and blackout stop lights.

Tata Safari Storme:

Tata Safari Storme has been included into the army fleet in recent years. The Army selected the Safari in the GS800 (general service 800) category. This category of vehicle comes with a minimum payload capacity of 800 kg, a hard top roof, air conditioning and standard 4WD/4x4. Tata Safari Storme’s Army version also gets army specified olive green (military green) paint along with features like flexible reading spot lamps in the cabin, recovery/tow hooks, blackout lights, flag hoisting mounts, 20 litre jerry can mounts, etc.

Polaris MRZR ATV:

A recent addition to the Indian Army's fleet, the Polaris MRZR is a small & lightweight all-terrain vehicle known for its mobility and versatility. Its compact dimensions and capability to navigate challenging terrains make it a valuable asset for rapid deployment or aerial/helicopter transfers. It can accommodate 2 to 6 infantrymen due to its modular rear cargo area and removable seats. Moreover, it comes with features like blackout & IR light, molle roof, UTV jack, on-demand true AWD/2WD, aircraft tie-downs, a spare tire holder, a jerry can holder, a tactical seat, etc.

Mahindra Straton:

The Straton is a versatile light armoured personnel carrier (APC) designed for military, paramilitary & police forces. Built on a monocoque chassis, it offers ballistic protection up to B7 level and can accommodate 8 (2+6) personnel.It also comes with a cupola turret machine gun mount with 270° rotation, Run-flat System, Intercom System, Front and Rear Air Conditioning, Siren, Public Address System, Ballistic Glass, Roof Hatch, Screen and Windows Mesh Protection, Infrared lights, Electric Winch, Tire Inflation System, and more.

Mahindra Marksman:

Although this light armoured personnel carrier from Mahindra Defense Systems got famous after its appearance in the popular bollywood movie Singham, it is being used by the Indian forces for a long time now. Based on the monocoque chassis, it offers B6 level ballistic protection to 6 (4+2) military, paramilitary and police personnels. On the features front, it gets all the features that its bigger brother Straton (above mentioned) gets.

Mahindra ALSV:

Mahindra ALSV is the successor of Mahindra Rakshak. The Armored Light Specialist Vehicle comes with a 400 Kgs cargo load-carrying capacity, 1,000 Kgs payload capacity and ballistic protection up to B7, STANAG Level 2. It can carry 4 crew members along with cabin storage space for arms and ammunition. It comes with a 3.2 litre multi fuel diesel engine paired with 4 or 6 speed automatic transmission and 4X4 tech. Moreover, it also gets front and rear differential locks, self-recovery winch and high travel all-wheel independent suspension with central tyre inflation system.

Kalyani M4:

Kalyani M4 is a 4X4 Multi-Role, Highly Dynamic, Mine Protected Armored Personnel Carrier manufactured by Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited in India. Although it is a licenced version of Mbombe 4, which is built by Paramount Group - a global defence & aerospace company based out of South Africa, the M4 does get an indigenously developed independent suspension system. Its additional features include Driver Assist Camera System, Vehicle Location and Tracking System, Fire Suppression Systems, Public Address System, Winch, Battlefield Management Systems, Radios, Intercom Systems, Central Tyre Inflation System (CTIS), Run Flat Inserts (RFI), etc.

CarBike360 Says

The 10 of the above mentioned four wheel vehicles of the Indian Army, ranging from classic legends to cutting-edge all-terrain vehicles, symbolise the force's commitment to staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of defence. As the army continues to modernise its fleet, these vehicles become not just symbols of strength but indispensable tools ensuring the security of the nation. On this Army Day 2024, let's salute the men and machines that stand guard, unwavering in their dedication to the safety and sovereignty of India.