Ashok Leyland to make artillery tractors for army

Ashok Leyland, the flagship of India's Hinduja Group, today said it had received orders to supply defence logistics vehicles worth Rs800 crore from the Indian army.

It will supply 450 units of field artillery tractor (FAT) 6x6, other similar Super Stallion vehicles and 825 units of 4x4-wheel Ambulances.

''The orders for (FAT) 6x6 and Ambulance 4x4 are in keeping with the momentum witnessed recently in the area of upgradation of technology and resources by the defence forces. It also reaffirms our Company's credentials as the largest defence mobility manufacturer that meets stringent requirements of the armed forces,'' said Vinod K. Dasari, managing director, Ashok Leyland, in a statement.

According to Ashok Leyland, it is the largest supplier of logistics vehicles to the Indian Army,

''We, at Ashok Leyland, through the 'Make in India' initiative stand committed to partner India's Armed Forces in their endeavor to modernize, scale up performance and increase effectiveness,'' he added.

A FAT 6x6 on Super Stallion platform will function as a common gun tower for all artillery guns. This versatile FAT provides the Army unprecedented flexibility in rapid deployment and utilisation of artillery resources. The vehicle can be used for a variety of applications across logistics and tactical segments.

The air-conditioned Aambulance will provide enhanced medical support in the immediate aftermath of injuries. A double-walled insulated body maintains inside temperature, while rear air suspension reduces shocks during transportation. All equipment meets Advanced Life Support standards.