Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has highlighted its collaboration with the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) through the joint development of next-generation Advanced Armoured Platforms in tracked and wheeled variants, branded VIKRAM VT 21, along with a newly developed 30mm Unmanned Turret.
The programme marks a significant milestone in India’s drive to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing and accelerate the development of advanced combat systems for the armed forces. Designed by DRDO’s Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE) and developed and manufactured by Tata Advanced Systems with technical support from VRDE, the prototypes were completed in less than 30 months.
The platforms were formally flagged off by DRDO on April 25, 2026, at the Vehicle Dynamic Test Track, National Centre for Automotive Testing (NCAT). The ceremony was attended by Dr Samir V Kamat, Chairman, DRDO and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, along with senior officials from DRDO, including the Director of VRDE, scientists from multiple laboratories, Tata Advanced Systems leadership and key subsystem partners.
Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, “This programme has set a new benchmark in collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems and DRDO, both in terms of execution speed and the quality of systems delivered. It reflects the strength of Indian industry and research institutions working together to create advanced defence solutions.”
The VIKRAM VT 21 platform has been developed as a future-ready combat vehicle focused on mobility, survivability and modularity. It has been engineered to meet evolving battlefield requirements while offering adaptability for multiple mission roles. The platform integrates advanced automotive systems, a high-mobility architecture and provisions for future technologies, including autonomous and crewless operations.
As part of the project, the vehicle incorporates the 30mm Unmanned Turret, jointly developed by Tata Advanced Systems and DRDO. The turret is intended for armoured personnel carriers and provides accurate targeting, greater firepower and improved battlefield awareness while keeping operators protected within the vehicle hull. Before the flag-off ceremony, both platforms successfully completed mobility trials at NCAT, VRDE. Additional qualification and performance evaluations are scheduled in the next phase of the programme.
Tata Advanced Systems said the project underlines its growing role in India’s defence ecosystem and its continued focus on building advanced land systems in partnership with DRDO and the armed forces. The company remains engaged in the design, development and production of technologies across aerospace, security and land mobility segments.
A wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, Tata Advanced Systems is among India’s leading private sector defence and aerospace companies, with capabilities spanning aerostructures, airborne systems, protected mobility platforms, missiles, radars, command systems and homeland security solutions.
