Indian Army initiates process to procure 159 bullet-proof troop carriers for Rashtriya Rifles

The Indian Army has initiated the process to procure 159 bullet-proof troop carriers (BPTCs) for Rashtriya Rifles battalions, sector headquarters and force headquarters in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The move is aimed at strengthening protected mobility for soldiers operating in difficult and hilly terrain.

The Army has floated a Request for Information (RFI) to identify Indian vendors capable of executing the project and supplying the vehicles. The requirement also specifies a minimum delivery capacity of 60 units per year after the contract is awarded.

Use in Rashtriya Rifles operations

The Rashtriya Rifles, which conducts counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir, currently depends on older vehicles for troop movement. The proposed BPTCs will be used for transporting personnel for both administrative and operational requirements.


The RFI states that the vehicles must ensure adequate mobility while also providing protection to troops onboard. They are also expected to carry limited battle loads, including weapons, ammunition and communication equipment.

Mobility and performance requirements

According to the specifications outlined in the RFI, the proposed troop carriers must be capable of reaching speeds of 80 to 100 kmph on roads. Off-road capability has been set at 50 to 75 kmph.

The vehicles are required to have a range of 350 km in plains and 300 km in mountainous terrain.

Operational environment and altitude capability

The BPTCs must be capable of operating at altitudes of up to 5,000 metres. This includes deployment in snow-bound regions of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The vehicles should also be able to function in temperature conditions ranging from minus 10 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius.

Armament features and self-reliance focus

The proposed carriers are expected to provide limited firing capability through firing pods. They should also allow the use of machine guns mounted on the vehicle hatch.

The Army has stated that the procurement process will be aligned with the Make in India initiative and the Atmanirbhar Bharat programme.