Indian automaker Tata Motors Limited (TTM) may be best known for its ultra-cheap, ultra-small Tata Nano, but the company is also India's leading supplier of security force vehicles. Tata Motors Limited showcased two of its latest combat vehicles today at DEFEXPO 2014, India's armed and armored defense show.
Tata Motors Limited presented its amphibious KESTREL, as well as its Light Armored High Mobility Vehicle (LAMV).
The 12-occupancy KESTRAL is a wheeled machine meant to provide mobility to frontline soldiers. Components include three periscopes, three gun ports, and 8X8 suspension.
Source: Tata Motors Limited.
The LAMV serves as a reconaissance vehicle for up to six soldiers. With composite and ceramic armor systems, the machine offers ample protection, while still being capable of reaching speeds up to 65 mph.
Source: Tata Motors Limited.
"Tata Motors has been associated with the country's defense and security forces for over 60 years, supplying a range of world-class, high technology and reliable off-road mobility solutions," said Ravi Pisharody, executive director of Tata Motors Limited's commercial vehicle business unit, in a statement. "While focusing on the modernization and system upgrades of the country's mobility platforms, we have strategically moved from being a logistics support provider to a frontline combat vehicle player. The two vehicles showcased today are state-of-the-art, targeted at giving our forces the much needed capabilities of strategic mobility for rapid offensive thrusts into enemy territory."
