Indian MoD Issues RFI to Procure 39 High-Altitude Carrier Command Post Tracked Vehicles

In a strategic push to enhance command-and-control capabilities in high-altitude and forward deployment areas, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has released a Request for Information (RFI) for the procurement of 39 Carrier Command Post Tracked (CCPT) vehicles. These specialised platforms are intended to serve as mobile command hubs for artillery units deployed along the challenging terrains of the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Designed with survivability, mobility, and advanced operational efficiency in mind, the new CCPT vehicles will serve a critical role in modernising India’s battlefield communication and command systems in extreme environments.

Key Features of the CCPT Vehicles

Each of the proposed tracked vehicles will come with:

• Remote-Controlled Weapon Station: A machine gun integrated for self-defence, operated remotely to safeguard personnel.

• Ballistic Protection: Capable of withstanding small arms fire and fragmentation from 155 mm artillery shells, ensuring crew safety during forward operations.

• NBC Protection: Full capability to function in Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) contaminated environments, providing operational continuity under unconventional threats.

• Ergonomic Command Space: Designed to house eight crew members, each with an individual workstation, supporting round-the-clock command and control operations.

Adapted for Challenging Terrain

The tracked chassis ensures enhanced mobility in mountainous, snow-covered, and rugged terrains — specifically those along the LAC where conventional wheeled vehicles are often ineffective. With modifications expected to include a longer hull and additional road wheels, the vehicle is tailored for better load distribution and traction on rough ground.

The configuration allows artillery units to remain fully operational and coordinated in high-altitude areas, bridging communication gaps and improving response times during military engagements or standoffs.

Command and Control Enhancement

The Carrier Command Post Tracked vehicle will serve as a mobile node in the Army’s battlefield management network. It is expected to be integrated with Artillery Combat Command and Control Systems (ACCCS), allowing seamless coordination of towed and self-propelled artillery systems.

Its primary role will be to enable real-time decision-making, situational awareness, and streamlined targeting support, especially in sectors where permanent infrastructure is limited or vulnerable.

Indigenous Focus and Future Timeline

The MoD is seeking participation from Indian vendors and manufacturers in alignment with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Indian industry players are expected to play a significant role in the design, development, and production of these platforms, ensuring technology infusion and reduced dependency on imports.

Following the RFI phase, the MoD will evaluate responses and move towards issuing a formal Request for Proposal (RFP). This will be followed by prototype trials and field evaluations before final production contracts are awarded. Induction is likely to begin within the next two to three years.

Strategic Significance

The procurement of these tracked command post vehicles signals a shift toward agile, tech-enabled warfare, particularly in sensitive border zones. With ongoing focus on strengthening infrastructure and readiness along the northern frontiers, these mobile command centres are expected to enhance both resilience and responsiveness of Indian forces.

The move is also part of a broader effort to revamp artillery command elements and battlefield digitisation, ensuring India’s preparedness for multi-domain operations in modern combat scenarios.