Indian Army Plans to Acquisition of 3,000 Vehicle-Mounted Mortar Systems for Northern Borders

In a significant development, the Indian Army is reportedly considering the procurement of up to 3,000 vehicle-mounted mortar systems to bolster its rapid-response firepower along the China border. This move underscores India's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and achieving greater self-reliance in military technology.

The Vehicle-Mounted Infantry Mortar System (VMIMS)

The core of this initiative is the Vehicle-Mounted Infantry Mortar System (VMIMS), which integrates the 81mm Alakran-L automated mortar system developed by Milanion NTGS, Spain, onto the Mahindra Armored Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV). This combination offers a highly mobile and efficient artillery platform.

Key Features and Capabilities

• Automated Deployment: The Alakran-L system features an electromechanical lift mechanism that lowers the mortar to a ground baseplate, ensuring stability and accuracy during firing.

• Rapid Setup: The system's automated laying and fire control systems enable quick deployment and firing, crucial for dynamic battlefield scenarios.

• Mobility and Protection: Mounted on the ALSV, the VMIMS provides enhanced mobility across rugged terrains, with limited armor protection against small arms and fragments.

• Firepower: The 81mm mortar has a range of up to 7.5 km and a maximum rate of fire of 20 rounds per minute, allowing for effective suppression of enemy positions.

Strategic Importance

This acquisition aligns with India's strategic objectives to strengthen its defense posture along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The VMIMS offers several advantages:

• Enhanced Artillery Reach: The system's mobility and rapid deployment capabilities enable artillery support in areas previously inaccessible to traditional towed or self-propelled systems.

• Self-Reliance in Defense: The integration of indigenous vehicles with advanced foreign technology exemplifies India's "Make in India" initiative, promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

• Operational Flexibility: The VMIMS supports a "shoot-and-scoot" tactic, allowing units to deliver firepower and quickly relocate to avoid counterattacks.

Future Prospects

While the initial procurement focuses on the 81mm variant, there is potential for future integration of the 120mm Alakran-L system, which offers extended range and greater firepower. This progression would further enhance the Indian Army's artillery capabilities.

The potential acquisition of 3,000 vehicle-mounted mortar systems marks a pivotal step in modernizing the Indian Army's artillery units. By combining advanced technology with indigenous manufacturing, India is poised to enhance its defense capabilities and assert its strategic interests along the LAC.

This initiative not only strengthens India's military readiness but also reflects a broader commitment to self-reliance and technological advancement in defense.