BEML has released an Expression of Interest (EoI) seeking to develop a Specialist Mobility Vehicle (SMV) through a technology collaboration likely with a foreign vendor. This raises multiple questions but lets approach them one by one.
First and foremost, If Mahindra already has the Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV), which meets many of the requirements outlined in the BEML Expression of Interest (EoI), then why is BEML, a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), seeking to develop a Specialist Mobility Vehicle (SMV) through a technology collaboration?
Lets understand the requirement:
Key Requirements for the SMV
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Weight | Less than 2600 kg |
| Crew Capacity | Minimum 9 personnel (including driver) |
| Braking System | Front and rear disc brakes |
| Range | 250-300 km on full fuel |
| Suspension | Independent front and rear suspension |
| Maximum Speed | Hard soil: 40 km/h, Desert: 25-30 km/h, Marshy: 20 km/h, Snow (1 ft): 15-20 km/h |
| Gradeability | Hard soil: 30°, Desert: 25°, Snow: 20° |
| Side Slope | Max 20° |
| Operating Altitude | Up to 14,500 ft |
| Operating Temperature | Plain/desert: 0°C to 45°C, High altitude/mountain: -35°C to 40°C |
| Fording Capability | Minimum 2 ft water depth |
| Weapon Mounting | Capable of mounting LMG/MMG |
| Ground Clearance | More than 550 mm |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 2000 kg |
| Winch Mechanism | 2000-3000 kg |
| Lighting | LED headlights |
| Tyres | Tubeless with CTIS (Central Tire Inflation System) and RFS (Run Flat System) |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4×4, switch mode on the fly |
| Engine Power | >190 HP |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | >20 HP/ton |
| Maximum Speed | >40 kmph on road |
| Emission Standards | BS IV or above |
| Floatation Capability | Should be capable of floating with a speed of at least 5 kmph in water |
| Cold Start System | Integrated cold engine start system with HVAC |
| Service Life | Minimum 10 years |
| Roll Cage | Certified Roll Over Protection System (ROPS) |
| Navigation | GNSS-based (NAVSTAR, GLONASS, IRNSS) |
| Software | Indigenous, with AI-based drive fatigue monitoring |
| Standards Compliance | ISO 9001:2008/2015 (Quality Management), ISO 2000 (Service Management), ISO 27000 (Information Security), AS9100 (Aerospace & Defense) |
| Engineering Support Package (ESP) | Special Maintenance Tools/Test Equipment, Spare parts supply, Digital & interactive training manuals, Periodic calibration of maintenance tools |
Reasons Behind BEML’s EoI Despite Existing Private Alternatives
Government’s Procurement Policy (IDDM Category)
The Buy (Indian – IDDM) category under DAP 2020 requires at least 50% indigenous content and prioritizes Indian-designed products. While Mahindra’s ALSV is an Indian product, BEML, as a PSU, may seek to ensure multiple options exist to prevent vendor lock-in with a single private player. The Indian Army may also want more choices before selecting a final platform. However bizzare it may sound like but this can be presented as a reason to get a node to compete.
Strategic Autonomy and Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat)
The Indian government is pushing for indigenous defense capabilities across multiple companies. BEML, with its own defense manufacturing facilities, may want to expand into light military vehicles instead of relying solely on private firms. Having a state-run option ensures continuous supply, particularly during conflicts when private firms might not be able to take on the losses.
Differences Between Mahindra ALSV and BEML SMV
The Mahindra ALSV is primarily an armored vehicle, whereas the BEML SMV appears to focus on mobility over armor. The weight limit of under 2600 kg in the BEML EoI suggests a more agile, lighter, and highly maneuverable vehicle. The Army may require a non-armored, high-speed, all-terrain vehicle for roles where the ALSV may be too heavy.
BEML’s Interest in Technology Collaboration
BEML may seek a technology collaboration to develop an in-house alternative to private options, integrate additional custom features such as improved floatation, CTIS, and AI-based monitoring, and compete for exports to friendly nations. BEML has previously partnered with Tatra, Ashok Leyland, and other global OEMs, indicating a possible interest in licensing or co-developing a product.
Ensuring Diversity in Suppliers and Reducing Risk
The Army may want at least two competing suppliers to avoid monopoly pricing and supply chain disruptions. Competition between Mahindra and BEML could lead to better pricing, innovation, and after-sales support.
BEML’s Role as a Defense PSU and Political Considerations
As a government-owned PSU, BEML has a mandate to be involved in defense projects. The Ministry of Defence may want to keep BEML engaged in vehicle manufacturing, similar to its role in heavy military trucks. There may also be internal policy considerations to ensure BEML remains relevant in this sector.
Is This a Redundant Initiative?
While Mahindra’s ALSV meets many of the Army’s requirements, BEML’s SMV initiative may not be entirely redundant. Differences in intended roles, procurement policy, and strategic needs could justify the project. The Indian Army may be keeping its options open and fostering competition to avoid dependence on a single private supplier. Future developments will determine whether BEML proceeds with a unique platform or if Mahindra’s ALSV remains the preferred choice for the Indian Army.
Available Options and Comparison.
| Feature | Polaris DAGOR A1 | Supacat HMT Extenda Mk2 | Oshkosh JLTV | Mahindra ALSV |
|---|
| Weight | 2,267 kg | 2,250-2,600 kg | ~2,700 kg | ~2,500 kg |
| Crew | 9 | 8 | 4 (expandable) | 6-8 |
| Engine | Turbo diesel, ~200 HP | 200+ HP turbo diesel | 270 HP diesel | 200 HP diesel |
| Suspension | Independent | Independent | Independent | Independent |
| Max Speed | 110 km/h | 100 km/h | 110 km/h | 120 km/h |
| Range | 500 km | 800 km | 480 km | 400 km |
| Fording | 0.75 m | 1 m | 1.5 m | 1 m |
| Weapon Mounts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Floatation | No | No | No | No |
| Navigation | GPS-based | GNSS-based | GNSS-based | GPS-based |
Finally :
- Polaris DAGOR A1 and Supacat HMT Extenda Mk2 are the closest matches in weight and performance.
- Mahindra ALSV is a strong Indian alternative, ensuring high indigenous content (meeting Buy Indian-IDDM requirements). Can BEML and Mahindra both produce same system together ?
- Oshkosh JLTV offers greater protection and payload capacity but exceeds the weight limit.
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