BAE Systems unveils BvS10 Combat Vehicle at 2012 DefExpo

The 2012 Defexpo has seen more private players venturing on to Indian soil and putting forward their technologies. Besides the joint venture with Mahindra & Mahindra, BAE Systems has unveiled its BvS10 MkII all-terrain combat vehicle and the CV90 light tank range. Initially created for the Swiss Army and sold to six nations, the CV90 provides high tactical and strategic mobility with low cost maintenance and cost-efficiency across its lifespan. The all-terrain vehicle shows off the company’s efforts to make for a safe yet agile tactical vehicle. With a capacity to carry four people, the MkII can have an added carrier that can transport 10 more personnel.

Dean McCumiskey, Managing Director & CEO India, BAE Systems said, “Defexpo is an extremely important platform for us in the continuing development6 of our business and last two years have marked a very good progress. Partnering in the industry in achieving self-reliance in the design, development and production of equipment, systems and platforms is the cornerstone of our business in India and we take pride in the milestones our joint ventures with Mahindra & Mahindra and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited have marked in their journeys since the last Defexpo. As we build our footprint, we are committed to creating key intellectual property indigenously working closely with partners to deliver best of breed solutions.”

BAE Systems has been working with Mahindra & Mahindra under the company’s Defence Land Systems India hood in creating effective tactical vehicles for the Indian defence forces. The earlier version of the BvS10 was powered by a 5.7litre Cummins engine and was a successor to the Bv206 category of All Terrain Armoured Vehicles.