Tata Group, from Nano to AFV’s

How well do you know Tata? Whilst America has the likes of Lockheed Martin, Raytheon & General Dynamics have you ever wondered what India has to match these giant defense companies? Well, you’ll be surprised to know that Tata the manufacturer of cars, steel and commodities is spearheading the defense sector alongside Mahindra and L&T in India.

Tata group’s arm for aerospace and defence, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), understanding and meeting the Army’s requirements recently designed and transported an indigenously developed Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicle-Medium (QRFV) to the Indian Army for use in the LAC and LOC region. According to the company, the vehicle will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army in future conflicts and war-like situations.

Looking at the Tata Group, it consists of 29 publicly-listed Tata Group companies with a combined market capitalisation of $311 billion as of 2022. One of these companies is Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) which serves the Indian Military. Now, the layman perception is that any company can start manufacturing weapons, hardware for the military with enough capital. However, it is important to note that the development and production of military equipment, including fighting vehicles, is a complex and highly specialized field that requires extensive research and development, as well as strict adherence to technical and safety standards. Companies such as TASL that are involved in the defense industry typically have experts from all around the country who are ready to provide their extensive expertise and experience in this area.

One of the major points as to the rise in private players has been thanks to the support of the Indian Government. In the last 5 years, we have seen advancements in not only military hardware but also the Indian Military sector. Companies such as Tata & Mahindra alongside others have emerged as a pivotal point in this sector with TASL leading the group by showcasing what can be done if like minds combine together.

This initiative has also led India to be less reliant on foreign powers for their military needs. Suzuki, the Japanese conglomerate was one of India’s main suppliers for Jeeps, Trucks and Personnel carriers. In the process of becoming self-reliant, the Indian Government switched to the Tata’s. The Tata Sumo was the debut car that was introduced to the Indian military followed by Tata Safari a few years ago and now, Tata’s Armoured Fighting Vehicles today.

Thanks to the combined efforts of not only private players but governmental organisations such as DRDO, HAL and BEL, India has finally been able to step up its Military Industry. Once, where India was known as the largest importer of weapons to India becoming one of the top 10 exporters of weapon is no small feat.

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