Defence Ministry Signs Rs975 Crore Deal to Boost Tank Minefield Breaching Capability

Overview

The Ministry of Defence of India has entered into contracts totalling almost Rs975 crore to improve the minefield-breaching ability of the Indian Army tanks T-72 and T-90. The procurement is on complex TRAWL assemblies, which are designed to enhance battlefield mobility and operational readiness especially in high-risk, mine-infested areas along sensitive borders.

TRAWL Assembly What is TRAWL Assembly?

TRAWL system is a specialised minefield breaching system created by the Defence Research and Development Organisation which is fitted on tanks.

• It neutralises anti-tank mines, even those with magnetic fuses.
• Establishes safe corridors to armoured movement.
• Improves the offensive and defensive.

This technology plays a key role in the contemporary mechanised warfare in which accessibility in mined regions will determine the success of operations.

Key Companies Involved

The following have been awarded the contracts:

• Bharat Earth Movers Limited (PSU Defence)
• Hydraulics India Pvt Ltd and Electro Pneumatics.

The procurement is part of the Buy (Indian IndianDM) category as it focuses on the indigenous design, development, and manufacturing.

Strategic and Defence Significance.

This program enhances Indian defense capabilities by:

• Enhancing survivability of tanks in minefields.
• Improving fast movement of troops during operations.
• Heightening operation flexibility in warring areas.

It further boosts the self-reliance mentality in defence manufacturing by India, and makes it less dependent on foreign systems.

Economical and Industrial Effect.

The project will create jobs and enhance domestic defence ecosystem.

• Promotes the involvement of MSMEs in the production of components.
• Enhances the defence supply chain.
• Helps the wider Aatmanirbhar Bharat project.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• TRAWL system contracts Rs975 crore.
• Used on T-72 and T-90 tanks
• Developed by DRDO
• Falls under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.
• Improves minefield breaking and freedom.

MCQ

Q1. The TRAWL system that was purchased by India is mainly utilized in:
A. Air defence activities.
B. Tanks violating minefields.
C. Missile guidance systems.
D. Naval surveillance

Answer: B

Description: TRAWL is attached to tanks such as T-72 and T-90 to counter any anti-tank mine and provide safe routes through which armored troops can move in a minefield.