Mahindra Armado ALSV Makes An Appearance At Republic Day Parade
Every year, during the Republic Day parade, Indian armed forces showcase the best and newest of their vehicles, for the nation to watch and take pride in. This time in Delhi, we saw the Mahindra Armado ALSV armoured vehicle impress us by making an appearance in the parade. The vehicle was showcased last year as well. Last year, however, two Armados took part in the parade. This time, it was just one. Here are a few key things to know about this military vehicle.
Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS), a subsidiary of the Mahindra group designed, developed and manufactured the Armado ALSV in India for the armed forces. It is primarily for use in tactical scenarios. It is an Armoured Tactical Vehicle (LSV) that can be used for recce and as a weapon carrier in high-intensity areas. It can be used in counter-terrorism operations. The first deliveries of the Armado commenced in June 2023.
Mahindra Armado is a modular-type vehicle. Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS) says that it can be upgraded and configured to suit a range of roles and purposes. The armour offers STANAG Level 2 and B7 level ballistic protection. The vehicle comes with a payload of 1,000 kg. The Armado can be modified into a weapons carrier, a reconnaissance vehicle, or a border security vehicle. This versatility is to be appreciated.
What Does The Armado Share With The Mahindra Thar?
Yes, there is something that’s common between this brutal military vehicle and the humble Mahindra Thar that we see on the Indian roads. The ALSV is based on the same platform as the Mahindra Thar. The chassis has, however, been reinforced heavily to suit the vehicle’s nature and make it combat-ready.
Now let’s come to the powertrains. The ALSV draws its power from a 3.2-litre turbocharged, direct-injection diesel engine that produces 215 bhp and 500 Nm. The top speed stands at 120 kph! 0-60 kph acceleration takes 12 seconds- decent considering the weight of the ALSV. There is four-wheel drive (4WD) offered as well. The ALSV can also run on multiple fuels.
The transmission duties on the Armado are carried out by a 4-speed automatic (4AT) unit. The vehicle also comes with front and rear differential locks, a self-recovery winch, Bilstein independent suspension with long travel for all four wheels, and other utility hardware that would make it extremely capable on diverse terrains.
The tyres used on this vehicle are 318/80-R17 units. Even if these are punctured, it can continue to drive for around 50 km without breaking down. There is even a centralised tyre inflation system on offer! Mahindra says that the ALSV can be made in both left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD) forms. Exports can thus potentially flourish as well.
Up to 8 people can be accommodated inside the Armado. This includes the driver as well. In normal configuration, the seating capacity is six. The vehicle also comes with a public address (PA) system, GPS, automatic grenade launcher, HF/UHF/VHF radio etc. For operating smoothly in extremely harsh and dusty climates, it even comes with a self-cleaning-type exhaust scavenging and air filtration system.
More Mahindra Armoured Vehicles: AXE, Marksman And More
Mahindra has decades of experience in making military and armoured vehicles. Over the years, the company has created many interesting military, armoured and tactical models like the AXE and Marksman. The Axe is a Light Military Utility Tactical Vehicle developed for use by the Indian army.
The Marksman could be a more familiar vehicle for many, as we have been seeing these in many international airports. It is a light armored personnel carrier (APC) used by the Indian police, paramilitary, and defence forces in many cities. The six-seater is based on the (reinforced) Mahindra Scorpio platform and gets the same mHawk diesel engine as well. It offers protection against small arms fire, grenades, and even mine blasts.