Ministry of Defence Signs ₹975 Crore Contracts for TRAWL Assemblies

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Image Courtesy: PIB

Ministry of Defence has signed contracts worth approximately ₹975 crore with Bharat Earth Movers Limited and Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics (India) Private Limited for the procurement of TRAWL Assemblies designed for T-72 and T-90 tanks. The agreements were formalised on April 21, 2026, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

The TRAWL Assembly, developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation, is a specialised system aimed at enhancing the Indian Army’s capability to safely navigate and clear minefields. The equipment enables armoured vehicles to create secure pathways through areas containing anti-tank mines, including those equipped with proximity magnetic fuses, thereby improving battlefield mobility and operational effectiveness.

This procurement falls under the “Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)” category, reinforcing the government’s focus on self-reliance in defence production. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, which emphasises strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities and reducing dependence on imports in critical sectors.

The induction of TRAWL Assemblies is expected to significantly boost the Indian Army’s engineering and combat support capabilities, particularly in hostile environments where minefields pose a major operational challenge. By enabling faster and safer breaching of minefields, the system enhances mission readiness and supports the movement of armoured formations in both defensive and offensive scenarios.

In addition to its strategic importance, the project is set to contribute to economic growth through employment generation and industrial development. The contracts are expected to create both direct and indirect job opportunities, particularly by engaging micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the supply chain for component manufacturing and system integration.

The involvement of domestic companies in the production process highlights the growing capability of India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. It also underscores the role of public and private sector collaboration in delivering advanced defence technologies tailored to the operational needs of the armed forces.

The Ministry of Defence continues to prioritise the induction of indigenously developed systems that combine technological innovation with operational efficiency. This latest procurement represents a step forward in modernising India’s defence infrastructure while supporting local industry and fostering innovation.

Operating under the Ministry of Defence India, BEML plays a vital role in supporting core sectors such as defence, rail, mining, and construction. With manufacturing facilities across Bengaluru, Kolar Gold Fields, Mysore, and Palakkad, and a legacy spanning over six decades, the company continues to drive innovation and excellence in engineering, positioning itself as a key player in global infrastructure development.