Tata Motors signs strategic agreement for defence vehicle

Automobile giants Tata Motors has signed a strategic agreement with Bharat Forge Limited and US' General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) for the Indian defence ministry's Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) programme, a statement said on Monday.

The Indian auto major will lead the consortium, with Bharat Forge Limited as a partner, while General Dynamics Land Systems will bring in its much proven expertise in combat vehicle platforms.

The automobile company will play on its strengths related to design, development and integration of mobility platforms, it said in a statement.

Pune-based Indian multinational Bharat Forge, part of Kalyani Group - a $2.5 billion conglomerate - will bring on board its competence with fighting platforms and manufacturing strengths.

The US company's proven expertise, as SOSI (a system of systems integrator) in various integrational programmes, will be leveraged by the consortium.

To be developed under the 'Make Category', the FICV is a high mobility armoured battle vehicle, for infantry men to keep pace with new advancements in weaponry system.