Indian Army inks Rs 223 crore deal for nextgen Tank Transporter Trailers

August 1, 2025

New Delhi: In a significant move to bolster battlefield logistics, the Indian Army has signed a ₹223.95 crore contract with Axiscades Aerospace and Technologies Pvt. Ltd. for the procurement of 212 next-generation 50-ton Tank Transporter Trailers. This acquisition aims to enhance the rapid movement of armoured vehicles in operational scenarios.

Equipped with advanced hydraulic and pneumatic loading ramps, along with steerable and liftable axles, the new trailers will ensure seamless transport of tanks and other heavy vehicles across difficult terrains, thereby strengthening the army’s mobility and readiness.

Aatmnirbhar Bharat Initiative

The deal falls under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, aligned with the ‘Aatmnirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which encourages indigenous defence manufacturing. This procurement is expected to significantly improve the logistical and operational efficiency of field formations while fostering local industry growth and employment generation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approves ₹1.05 lakh crore new proposal

This development follows a series of government measures to push self-reliance in defence. Earlier this month, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved 10 new proposals worth approximately ₹1.05 lakh crore, including missiles and electronic warfare systems—all through domestic sourcing.

India’s indigenous defence production has surged to a record ₹1.46 lakh crore, with exports hitting an all-time high of ₹24,000 crore in 2024–25. “A decade ago, our defence production stood at just ₹43,000 crore. Today, with the private sector contributing over ₹32,000 crore, we’ve made historic progress,” said Rajnath Singh at a recent CII Annual Summit.

He further emphasized that Make-in-India is key to national security and economic strength, noting that indigenous equipment used during Operation Sindoor showcased India’s ability to breach enemy defences. India’s defence exports now span nearly 100 countries, supported by over 16,000 MSMEs, which he described as the backbone of the sector—driving self-reliance and creating employment for lakhs of citizens.