On March 27, 2025โ In a significant stride towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, BEML Ltd launched its indigenously designed and manufactured High Mobility Vehicle (HMV) 12×12 at its Palakkad complex. The state-of-the-art vehicle, developed for the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India, is set to enhance the operational mobility of Indiaโs Defence forces while aligning with the nationโs AatmaNirbhar Bharat initiative.
The formal unveiling ceremony was led by Shri Shantanu Roy, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of BEML Ltd, in the presence of Shri G. Ramamohana Rao, Director of VRDE, alongside BEMLโs functional directors and senior officials from both organizations. The event was marked by traditional Indian celebrations, with the HMV 12×12 adorned with vibrant marigold garlands and blue-and-white balloons, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune for the new venture.
The HMV 12×12 is engineered to tackle extreme terrains and challenging climatic conditions, making it a vital asset for Indiaโs Defence operations. Equipped with a 7-speed Allison Automatic Transmission, the vehicle supports a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 65 tons, making it ideal for carrying heavy military assets like artillery systems, missile launchers,ย Radar Systems, Bridge laying Systems, or armored units, ensuring rapid deployment in critical situations. It was developed through BEMLโs Futuristic Product Innovation and Incubation Centre (FPIIC), showcasing the companyโs commitment to innovation and self-reliance in strategic military assets.
The HMV 12×12 is designed with scalability in mind, allowing for future upgrades to meet evolving operational needs. This adaptability ensures that the vehicle can integrate new technologies, such as advanced communication systems or enhanced armour, keeping the Indian military prepared for modern warfare challenges.
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The launch of the HMV 12×12 underscores Indiaโs broader push for indigenization in defence production, a key pillar of the AatmaNirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. By leveraging local innovation and manufacturing, BEML is playing a pivotal role in reducing dependency on foreign imports and enhancing the countryโs strategic autonomy in military technology. Its development also positions India to potentially export such vehicles in the future, contributing to the countryโs ambition of becoming a global defence manufacturing hub.
