Abhay Tank- Abhay Infantry Fighting Vehicle- Abhay ICV

1. Technology ISSN : 0971-4413 BULLETIN OF DEFENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION Vol. 17 No. 4 August 2009 Technologies for Light Technologies for Light Armoured Tracked Vehicles Armoured Tracked Vehicles echnology and its applications has always been a T high priority of the Defence Forces. As scientific discoveries and technological advances grew, so do their military applications. Though technological advancements have forced the military world over to replace or upgrade systems dependent on fast moving technology (weapons, sensors and communication equipment) more frequently than in the past, system platforms are likely to retain their operational edge for longer because the technologies on which they depend (materials, structures and propulsion) will probably advance less rapidly, and because they will be designed to accommodate updates. Combat vehicles are an important item of any Defence inventory. Their applications have always been integral for a wide range of operations from high-intensity combat to peacekeeping. new technologies to combat vehicle systems concurrently and synergistically can make performance predictions difficult and acquisitions risky. However, if accelerated technology developments are coupled with virtual and constructive simulation for human performance and battlefield effectiveness predictions, acquisition programme risk can be substantially reduced. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is engaged in design and development of light tracked vehicles to meet the operational requirements of Indian Army. The products developed by DRDO like Armoured Engineer Recce Vehicle (AERV), Armoured Amphibious Dozer (AAD), and modified scooping device developed for NBC Recce Vehicles are remarkable achievements and have been productionised under Limited Series Production (LSP) for introduction into the Service. To fill the technological gap of new generation Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) companion to MBT, DRDO has also developed an indigenous ICV, called Abhay. Abhay is a blend of state-of-the-art technologies with impressive fire power, excellent mobility, and high degree of protection. There is an upward trend to develop affordable armoured combat vehicles that provide a high level of crew survivability, and are relatively lightweight for strategic mobility. This pressure is prompting the application of concurrent advances of emerging technologies to enable medium weight vehicles to operate effectively in roles ranging from high intensity conflicts to operations other than war. Applying these

2. Technology From th e De sk of Spe cial Editor ˜ Equipped with land recce instruments like Digital Cone Penetrometer (DCP) for measurement of bearing capacity of soil; Electronic Distomat and Theodolite (EDT) for measurement of distance, height, and slope of the bank; Laser Range Finder (LRF); Passive Night Observation Device (PNOD); and Water Recce Instruments like Echo Sounder (ES) to measure water depth, bed profile, etc., Water Current Meter (WCM), Electronic Distance Meter (EDM) to measure distance travelled in water, Standalone Handheld Water Current Meter for measuring water current, and depth measuring equipment DRDO has the charter to maintain and enhance the Indian Forces' already advanced capabilities. Supporting an Army at war is critical, both tactically and strategically. From a tactical standpoint, DRDO is working with the Services and industry partners to provide the weapon systems and equipment our Services need to accomplish their mission. Strategically, besides meeting the ongoing requirements, DRDO is also working to overcome the timeline to deliver weapon systems and equipment to the users. DRDO's goal is to constrict the concept-to-combat cycle to meet the immediate and future needs of the users. Its dynamic and responsive S&T portfolio is focused to enable specific new capabilities in the Future Force while remaining agile to satisfy the Current Force's operational needs. Infantry combat vehicles are used as a means of armoured transportation to move infantry to the battlefield after tanks and capture combat areas. In the era of conventional combined arms and peacekeeping operations ICVs have evolved into a real force multiplier. This issue of Technology Focus gives an overview of the light tracked vehicles developed by DRDO for the Indian Army. The issue also highlights the indigenous capabilities developed by DRDO during the development of its multidisciplinary and multi-lab project, ICV Abahy. Armoured engineer recce vehicle. Armoured Amphibious Dozer Armoured Amphibious Dozer (AAD) is designed to provide integral engineering support in offensive operations by reducing banks of water obstacles to facilitate construction of wet/dry assault bridges and improving mobility of mechanised formations by construction and improvement of existing tracks. AAD, based on re-engineered BMP-II chassis, comprises a Rocket Propelled Anchor (RPA) for self recovery from water obstacle (90 m range), and improved day sight and image intensifier for night operations. The indigenous dual control technology (operator sitting in the rear side of the vehicle) used for AAD has helped in easy dozing operations. Army's LSP order for six AADs is being executed by the OFP, Medak. I thank Dr CL Dhamejani, Director VRDE, his design team, and also all the Directors of other DRDO laboratories/establishments who contributed in realising LSP orders and technology development programmes. In this process, DRDO has not only built self-reliance and confidence in development of indigenous technologies and system integration capabilities of light tracked vehicles, but has also strengthened its research and development base, which will be definitely helpful in development of Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) as per GSQR 1053. R. Shankar Director Dte of Combat Vehicles & Engineering DRDO HQ, New Delhi Armoured Engineer Recce Vehicle Salient Features Armoured amphibious dozer. Armoured Engineer Recce Vehicle (AERV) is designed to provide combat engineering support for both offensive and defensive operations in plain, desert, and reverine terrain. AERV can measure bank conditions, profile of water obstacles, and terrain conditions to facilitate construction of assault bridges. The vehicle is based on amphibious BMP-II chassis retaining its mobility and protective features. Two LSP orders for 16 AERVs have been placed by Army. The LSP is being executed by VRDE through the production agencies Ordinance Factory Project (OFP), Medak, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Pune. Fourteen vehicles have already been delivered and others are ready for delivery. Transfer of AHSP (authority for holding sealed particulars) to CQA (ICV) is concurrently being carried out. ˜ GVW Bucket capacity Prime mover Pump Dual control Fuel tank capacity Armament Hydraulic winch Buoyancy tanks Jib crane : : : : : : : : : 16 ton 1.53 m (normal); 1.90 m ( heaped ) CI engine, 76 kW @ 2400 rpm, water cooled L&T poclain radial piston, 180 lpm @ 200 bar Driver's controls duplicated for dozing operations 462 l + 66 l (for auxillary engine) 7.62 mm machine gun mounted on operator's cupola Ex M/s Rotzler, 8 ton capacity Add-on kit to retain amphibious capability and better steerability during floatation 3 ton capacity, bucket mounted 3 3 03 02 ˜ ˜ ˜ August 2009 August 2009 ˜ ˜ Salient Features ˜ Based on BMP-II chassis and fully amphibious ˜ ˜ ˜ Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) ˜ : Picket Driving System (PDS) for route marking ˜ ˜

3. Technology From th e De sk of Spe cial Editor ˜ Equipped with land recce instruments like Digital Cone Penetrometer (DCP) for measurement of bearing capacity of soil; Electronic Distomat and Theodolite (EDT) for measurement of distance, height, and slope of the bank; Laser Range Finder (LRF); Passive Night Observation Device (PNOD); and Water Recce Instruments like Echo Sounder (ES) to measure water depth, bed profile, etc., Water Current Meter (WCM), Electronic Distance Meter (EDM) to measure distance travelled in water, Standalone Handheld Water Current Meter for measuring water current, and depth measuring equipment DRDO has the charter to maintain and enhance the Indian Forces' already advanced capabilities. Supporting an Army at war is critical, both tactically and strategically. From a tactical standpoint, DRDO is working with the Services and industry partners to provide the weapon systems and equipment our Services need to accomplish their mission. Strategically, besides meeting the ongoing requirements, DRDO is also working to overcome the timeline to deliver weapon systems and equipment to the users. DRDO's goal is to constrict the concept-to-combat cycle to meet the immediate and future needs of the users. Its dynamic and responsive S&T portfolio is focused to enable specific new capabilities in the Future Force while remaining agile to satisfy the Current Force's operational needs. Infantry combat vehicles are used as a means of armoured transportation to move infantry to the battlefield after tanks and capture combat areas. In the era of conventional combined arms and peacekeeping operations ICVs have evolved into a real force multiplier. This issue of Technology Focus gives an overview of the light tracked vehicles developed by DRDO for the Indian Army. The issue also highlights the indigenous capabilities developed by DRDO during the development of its multidisciplinary and multi-lab project, ICV Abahy. Armoured engineer recce vehicle. Armoured Amphibious Dozer Armoured Amphibious Dozer (AAD) is designed to provide integral engineering support in offensive operations by reducing banks of water obstacles to facilitate construction of wet/dry assault bridges and improving mobility of mechanised formations by construction and improvement of existing tracks. AAD, based on re-engineered BMP-II chassis, comprises a Rocket Propelled Anchor (RPA) for self recovery from water obstacle (90 m range), and improved day sight and image intensifier for night operations. The indigenous dual control technology (operator sitting in the rear side of the vehicle) used for AAD has helped in easy dozing operations. Army's LSP order for six AADs is being executed by the OFP, Medak. I thank Dr CL Dhamejani, Director VRDE, his design team, and also all the Directors of other DRDO laboratories/establishments who contributed in realising LSP orders and technology development programmes. In this process, DRDO has not only built self-reliance and confidence in development of indigenous technologies and system integration capabilities of light tracked vehicles, but has also strengthened its research and development base, which will be definitely helpful in development of Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) as per GSQR 1053. R. Shankar Director Dte of Combat Vehicles & Engineering DRDO HQ, New Delhi Armoured Engineer Recce Vehicle Salient Features Armoured amphibious dozer. Armoured Engineer Recce Vehicle (AERV) is designed to provide combat engineering support for both offensive and defensive operations in plain, desert, and reverine terrain. AERV can measure bank conditions, profile of water obstacles, and terrain conditions to facilitate construction of assault bridges. The vehicle is based on amphibious BMP-II chassis retaining its mobility and protective features. Two LSP orders for 16 AERVs have been placed by Army. The LSP is being executed by VRDE through the production agencies Ordinance Factory Project (OFP), Medak, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Pune. Fourteen vehicles have already been delivered and others are ready for delivery. Transfer of AHSP (authority for holding sealed particulars) to CQA (ICV) is concurrently being carried out. ˜ GVW Bucket capacity Prime mover Pump Dual control Fuel tank capacity Armament Hydraulic winch Buoyancy tanks Jib crane : : : : : : : : : 16 ton 1.53 m (normal); 1.90 m ( heaped ) CI engine, 76 kW @ 2400 rpm, water cooled L&T poclain radial piston, 180 lpm @ 200 bar Driver's controls duplicated for dozing operations 462 l + 66 l (for auxillary engine) 7.62 mm machine gun mounted on operator's cupola Ex M/s Rotzler, 8 ton capacity Add-on kit to retain amphibious capability and better steerability during floatation 3 ton capacity, bucket mounted 3 3 03 02 ˜ ˜ ˜ August 2009 August 2009 ˜ ˜ Salient Features ˜ Based on BMP-II chassis and fully amphibious ˜ ˜ ˜ Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) ˜ : Picket Driving System (PDS) for route marking ˜ ˜

4. Technology Salient Features NBC Recce Vehicle 3 men crew for turret 105 mm semiautomatic main gun with muzzle brake Capable of firing APFSDS, APDS (Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot), HESH (High Explosive Squash Head) ammunition COTAC semiautomatic Fire Control System (FCS) Accurate ranging by LRF Low-light level TV for commander and gunner Panoramic sight for Commander Al alloy turret with 12.7 AP protection level Amphibian capabilities Stowing capability: Main gun–42 rounds; turret–10 rounds; ammunition compartment–32 rounds ˜ ˜ NBC Recce Vehicle is designed to diagnose the presence of nuclear, biological, and chemical agents in the affected area. It cordons the contaminated areas and transmits the vital information to the support formation from within the confines of the vehicle. Vehicle is based on BMP-II chassis. VRDE is responsible for modification of the basic vehicle, development of scooping device for sample collection, and picket driving system. ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜ 105 mm light tank. ˜ Army has accepted the vehicle after implementation of modifications as requested by them, and has placed LSP order for eight vehicles. Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur, is the nodal agency for execution of the LSP order and OFP, Medak, is the production agency. ˜ NBC recce vehicle. Infantry Combat Vehicle Abhay Salient Features Development of ICV Abhay required several technologies in the fields of materials, electronics, instrumentation, armaments, etc. The programme was executed through integrated approach with support from sister laboratories of DRDO. These include, IRDE, ARDE, DMRL, HEMRL, CFEES, DEBEL, CVRDE, and DLJ. VRDE carried out the basic design and development of hull and turret envelopes, power pack, running gear, suspension, vetronics, automotive systems, system integration, and testing. A number of technologies have been realised while developing Abhay. Some of these are covered here. Vehicle is equipped with the following instruments/devices: Nuclear recce instruments such as roentgenometer, portable dosimeter, portable dose rate meter, and meteorological sensors ˜ Remote controlled sample collecting device ˜ Chemical recce instruments like chemical agent monitor, gas chromatograph, residual vapour detection kit ˜ Portable decontamination apparatus and NBC suits ˜ Data acquisition system ˜ 05 04 Differential global positioning system ˜ Picket driving system for marking of contaminated areas ˜ August 2009 August 2009 105 mm Light Tank DRDO has developed a light tank based on BMP-II chassis with 105 mm turret (GIAT industries, France). This vehicle is aimed to carry high caliber weapons without sacrificing the strategic or tacticalmobility. Mechanical integration of turret with chassis, stability during firing, and compatibility of 105 mm Indian Armour Piercing Fin Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) ammunition with turret have been established during the trials. Infantry combat vehicle Abhay.

5. Technology Salient Features NBC Recce Vehicle 3 men crew for turret 105 mm semiautomatic main gun with muzzle brake Capable of firing APFSDS, APDS (Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot), HESH (High Explosive Squash Head) ammunition COTAC semiautomatic Fire Control System (FCS) Accurate ranging by LRF Low-light level TV for commander and gunner Panoramic sight for Commander Al alloy turret with 12.7 AP protection level Amphibian capabilities Stowing capability: Main gun–42 rounds; turret–10 rounds; ammunition compartment–32 rounds ˜ ˜ NBC Recce Vehicle is designed to diagnose the presence of nuclear, biological, and chemical agents in the affected area. It cordons the contaminated areas and transmits the vital information to the support formation from within the confines of the vehicle. Vehicle is based on BMP-II chassis. VRDE is responsible for modification of the basic vehicle, development of scooping device for sample collection, and picket driving system. ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜ 105 mm light tank. ˜ Army has accepted the vehicle after implementation of modifications as requested by them, and has placed LSP order for eight vehicles. Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur, is the nodal agency for execution of the LSP order and OFP, Medak, is the production agency. ˜ NBC recce vehicle. Infantry Combat Vehicle Abhay Salient Features Development of ICV Abhay required several technologies in the fields of materials, electronics, instrumentation, armaments, etc. The programme was executed through integrated approach with support from sister laboratories of DRDO. These include, IRDE, ARDE, DMRL, HEMRL, CFEES, DEBEL, CVRDE, and DLJ. VRDE carried out the basic design and development of hull and turret envelopes, power pack, running gear, suspension, vetronics, automotive systems, system integration, and testing. A number of technologies have been realised while developing Abhay. Some of these are covered here. Vehicle is equipped with the following instruments/devices: Nuclear recce instruments such as roentgenometer, portable dosimeter, portable dose rate meter, and meteorological sensors ˜ Remote controlled sample collecting device ˜ Chemical recce instruments like chemical agent monitor, gas chromatograph, residual vapour detection kit ˜ Portable decontamination apparatus and NBC suits ˜ Data acquisition system ˜ 05 04 Differential global positioning system ˜ Picket driving system for marking of contaminated areas ˜ August 2009 August 2009 105 mm Light Tank DRDO has developed a light tank based on BMP-II chassis with 105 mm turret (GIAT industries, France). This vehicle is aimed to carry high caliber weapons without sacrificing the strategic or tacticalmobility. Mechanical integration of turret with chassis, stability during firing, and compatibility of 105 mm Indian Armour Piercing Fin Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) ammunition with turret have been established during the trials. Infantry combat vehicle Abhay.

6. Technology modernisation of NBC Protection Sytem of ICV BMP-II has been developed and integrated on ICV Abhay. Armoured Hull Envelope The Structure Integrated Fire Supression System Hull envelope is the basic structure of ICV. It houses automotive, armament, and running gear systems. It also provides space for crew, and protection against small arms. A lightweight compound armoured hull has been designed to accommodate all the sub-systems maintaining the dimensions limits. The first Armoured Prototype-I(AP-I) was developed using steel of thin medium hardness. The second Armoured Prototype-II (AP-II) was developed with round corners with reduced silhouette enhancing the stealth capability, and was also mounted with composite armour optimised for the perceived threats. The programme has helped DRDO in realizing the indigenous hull manufacturing technology—edge preparation, specialised welding and armour bending techniques. The technology of mounting non-metallic composite armour has also been indigenously developed for this programme. The Integrated Fire Supression System (IFSS) has been developed to protect Abhay from fire in engine and crew compartment. IFSS comprises Main Control Unit (MCU), IR Detector Units, Automatic Fire Extinquisher (AFE), Portable Fire Extinguisher (PFE), Electrical Pyro Cartridge, Linear Thermal Detector, Alarm Unit (AU), Emergency Switch Unit (ESU), Cable Harness, and IFSS system softwar e. Testing of ERA pannel (left) and undamaged base armour. Automotive Systems Power Pack Hull envelope of armoured prototype-II and armoured prototype-I(top). Hull envelope of Abhay runs on a 550 hp indigenous turbocharged diesel engine with Hydro Mechanical Power Transmission (HMPT)-500- 3EC fully automatic cross-drive transmission of M/s David Brown, UK. It has six forward and two reverse speeds. A new cooling system comprising radiator core, after cooler core, transmission oil cooler, hydraulic oil cooler core, cooling fan, and hydraulic drives has been indigenously designed and developed. The compact cooling system with hydraulic drives is capable of withstanding temperature o ranging from -10 C to +55 C. The steering and brake system integrated with automatic transmission are controlled through indigenously developed actuation system and linkage mechanism. An indigenous Power Distribution Unit (PDU) distributes power to compressor, generator, cooling fan, etc. Lightweight final drives with offset using aluminium casings have been also realised indigenously. Composite Armour RADMAC (left) and automatic control unit. New armour technologies such as multi-ceramic armour; titanium armour; high hardness steel armour; dual hardness spaced armour; and anti-fragment armour have been successfully designed, developed, fabricated and integrated for providing specificed protection at various locations of ICV Abhay. All these technologies have led to a weight reduction of the armour by more than 40 per cent in comparison with steel for equivalent protection. More than 300 armour components fabricated to specific shapes, sizes and configurations have been made and integrated on the armoured prototypes. o Compact power pack system (left) and air intake and cooling system. 07 06 August 2009 August 2009 Development of Lighter ERA Multi-hit ceramic armour and titanium armour(top). Suspension System Lighter impact version of explosive reactive armour (ERA) with mounting fixtures, etc., has been developed. The ERA can offer protection without any damage to base armour of Abhay. The hydro strut suspension of Abhay utilises the proven advantages of a pneumatic spring. Abhay's hydro damper can be adapted to both tracked vehicles. The damper is inbuilt in this form of suspension. The hydro strut suspension offers better ride comfort and exceptional cross-country mobility. The static load capacity of each suspension is 1.4 ton to 1.9 ton with wheel travel up to 400 mm, and bounce and rebound of 300 mm and 100 mm, respectively. NBC Protection System The NBC protection system consisting of Radiation Detection, Measurement and Control (RADMAC) Unit, Automatic Control Unit (ACU), Blower Control Unit (BCU) and automation of NBC Protection System vis-a-vis

7. Technology modernisation of NBC Protection Sytem of ICV BMP-II has been developed and integrated on ICV Abhay. Armoured Hull Envelope The Structure Integrated Fire Supression System Hull envelope is the basic structure of ICV. It houses automotive, armament, and running gear systems. It also provides space for crew, and protection against small arms. A lightweight compound armoured hull has been designed to accommodate all the sub-systems maintaining the dimensions limits. The first Armoured Prototype-I(AP-I) was developed using steel of thin medium hardness. The second Armoured Prototype-II (AP-II) was developed with round corners with reduced silhouette enhancing the stealth capability, and was also mounted with composite armour optimised for the perceived threats. The programme has helped DRDO in realizing the indigenous hull manufacturing technology—edge preparation, specialised welding and armour bending techniques. The technology of mounting non-metallic composite armour has also been indigenously developed for this programme. The Integrated Fire Supression System (IFSS) has been developed to protect Abhay from fire in engine and crew compartment. IFSS comprises Main Control Unit (MCU), IR Detector Units, Automatic Fire Extinquisher (AFE), Portable Fire Extinguisher (PFE), Electrical Pyro Cartridge, Linear Thermal Detector, Alarm Unit (AU), Emergency Switch Unit (ESU), Cable Harness, and IFSS system softwar e. Testing of ERA pannel (left) and undamaged base armour. Automotive Systems Power Pack Hull envelope of armoured prototype-II and armoured prototype-I(top). Hull envelope of Abhay runs on a 550 hp indigenous turbocharged diesel engine with Hydro Mechanical Power Transmission (HMPT)-500- 3EC fully automatic cross-drive transmission of M/s David Brown, UK. It has six forward and two reverse speeds. A new cooling system comprising radiator core, after cooler core, transmission oil cooler, hydraulic oil cooler core, cooling fan, and hydraulic drives has been indigenously designed and developed. The compact cooling system with hydraulic drives is capable of withstanding temperature o ranging from -10 C to +55 C. The steering and brake system integrated with automatic transmission are controlled through indigenously developed actuation system and linkage mechanism. An indigenous Power Distribution Unit (PDU) distributes power to compressor, generator, cooling fan, etc. Lightweight final drives with offset using aluminium casings have been also realised indigenously. Composite Armour RADMAC (left) and automatic control unit. New armour technologies such as multi-ceramic armour; titanium armour; high hardness steel armour; dual hardness spaced armour; and anti-fragment armour have been successfully designed, developed, fabricated and integrated for providing specificed protection at various locations of ICV Abhay. All these technologies have led to a weight reduction of the armour by more than 40 per cent in comparison with steel for equivalent protection. More than 300 armour components fabricated to specific shapes, sizes and configurations have been made and integrated on the armoured prototypes. o Compact power pack system (left) and air intake and cooling system. 07 06 August 2009 August 2009 Development of Lighter ERA Multi-hit ceramic armour and titanium armour(top). Suspension System Lighter impact version of explosive reactive armour (ERA) with mounting fixtures, etc., has been developed. The ERA can offer protection without any damage to base armour of Abhay. The hydro strut suspension of Abhay utilises the proven advantages of a pneumatic spring. Abhay's hydro damper can be adapted to both tracked vehicles. The damper is inbuilt in this form of suspension. The hydro strut suspension offers better ride comfort and exceptional cross-country mobility. The static load capacity of each suspension is 1.4 ton to 1.9 ton with wheel travel up to 400 mm, and bounce and rebound of 300 mm and 100 mm, respectively. NBC Protection System The NBC protection system consisting of Radiation Detection, Measurement and Control (RADMAC) Unit, Automatic Control Unit (ACU), Blower Control Unit (BCU) and automation of NBC Protection System vis-a-vis

8. Technology The technologies realised during the development of hydro gas suspension system include surface finishing and surface coating techniques, sealing materials, manufacturing techniques for seals, test cycles, and testing procedure. Running Gear System Indigenously developed running gear system of Abhay comprises a double pin, and rubber track with central horn. The axle arms, sprockets, idler wheels, road wheels, and track tension mechanism have also been indigenously designed and developed. Polyhedral (left) and rounded turret structures. accommodates commander and gunner, and is also fitted with main gun, secondary armament, gun control equipment, gunner's main sight, etc. Both AP-I and AP-II have suspended lightweight turret baskets for attachment of assemblies and integrated equipment. Both, the commander and the gunner have adjustable seats. A bearing race (wire race) meshed with pinion gear helps in turret traverse. It is driven by lightweight high precision servo gear drives. The turret lock has been designed for positive locking of turret traverse during movement of ICV. Left to right: Running gear assembly, road wheel, and track. Advance Automotive Dashboard Electric Weapon Control System An indigenous advance automotive dashboard with various sensors has been developed and integrated on the vehicle. The dashboard has been interfaced with GPS system for navigation. It acquires inputs on various parameters from engine, transmission, and troops' compartments and displays it on the front panel. The front end display shows selectable vehicle parameters such as vehicle speed, engine speed, engine/gearbox oil pressure, temperature, etc. The system checks all vehicle parameters and generates appropriate messages. It also records the cumulative values of important parameters, and schedule of periodic maintenance. The system continuously compares sensors inputs of critical parameters with threshold limits and gives audio/visual warning whenever any parameter goes out of specified range. All electric-type weapon control system with indepen- dent stabilisation has been developed indigenously to position the 40 mm main gun on the target in azimuth and elevation, and to provide stabilisation to weapon platform against external disturbances. The system employs vector control technology implemented through digital controllers and Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT)-based power amplifiers for control of brushless drives. It uses state-of-the-art fibre optic gyros as feedback elements for the purpose of stabili- sation. All Electric Drive (AED) has a provision of MIL 1553 and RS 422 interface for real-time connectivity with FCS and Battle Management System (BMS). It has been interfaced with a combined day-cum-night sight integrated to LRF. 08 09 Front end display of dashboard. August 2009 August 2009 Turret System Turret Structure Gun control system for Abhay. A polygonal shaped turret envelope made of armour steel plates has been developed. To increase the protection level, the turret is sloped all around especially in the formal arc of protection. For the AP-II, a rounded turret has been realised by armour bending technique. The turret provides low silhouette and maximum protection level,

9. Technology The technologies realised during the development of hydro gas suspension system include surface finishing and surface coating techniques, sealing materials, manufacturing techniques for seals, test cycles, and testing procedure. Running Gear System Indigenously developed running gear system of Abhay comprises a double pin, and rubber track with central horn. The axle arms, sprockets, idler wheels, road wheels, and track tension mechanism have also been indigenously designed and developed. Polyhedral (left) and rounded turret structures. accommodates commander and gunner, and is also fitted with main gun, secondary armament, gun control equipment, gunner's main sight, etc. Both AP-I and AP-II have suspended lightweight turret baskets for attachment of assemblies and integrated equipment. Both, the commander and the gunner have adjustable seats. A bearing race (wire race) meshed with pinion gear helps in turret traverse. It is driven by lightweight high precision servo gear drives. The turret lock has been designed for positive locking of turret traverse during movement of ICV. Left to right: Running gear assembly, road wheel, and track. Advance Automotive Dashboard Electric Weapon Control System An indigenous advance automotive dashboard with various sensors has been developed and integrated on the vehicle. The dashboard has been interfaced with GPS system for navigation. It acquires inputs on various parameters from engine, transmission, and troops' compartments and displays it on the front panel. The front end display shows selectable vehicle parameters such as vehicle speed, engine speed, engine/gearbox oil pressure, temperature, etc. The system checks all vehicle parameters and generates appropriate messages. It also records the cumulative values of important parameters, and schedule of periodic maintenance. The system continuously compares sensors inputs of critical parameters with threshold limits and gives audio/visual warning whenever any parameter goes out of specified range. All electric-type weapon control system with indepen- dent stabilisation has been developed indigenously to position the 40 mm main gun on the target in azimuth and elevation, and to provide stabilisation to weapon platform against external disturbances. The system employs vector control technology implemented through digital controllers and Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT)-based power amplifiers for control of brushless drives. It uses state-of-the-art fibre optic gyros as feedback elements for the purpose of stabili- sation. All Electric Drive (AED) has a provision of MIL 1553 and RS 422 interface for real-time connectivity with FCS and Battle Management System (BMS). It has been interfaced with a combined day-cum-night sight integrated to LRF. 08 09 Front end display of dashboard. August 2009 August 2009 Turret System Turret Structure Gun control system for Abhay. A polygonal shaped turret envelope made of armour steel plates has been developed. To increase the protection level, the turret is sloped all around especially in the formal arc of protection. For the AP-II, a rounded turret has been realised by armour bending technique. The turret provides low silhouette and maximum protection level,

10. Technology Commander's Day Periscope Armament System Commander's day periscope provides the facility to the commander for surveillance and designate outside terrain targets when the commander's hatch is closed. Abhay is fitted with a 40 mm caliber main gun; two column feed and ejection system for firing APFSDS and high explosive (HE) ammunition; integrated Armament Fire Control Unit (AFCU); mounting system; and balancing gears. Coaxial mounting system for 7.62 mm PKT, and elevating, firing and cocking mechanisms for 30 mm AGL have also been developed as a secondary armament system. New 40 mm FSAPDS ammunition has also been developed using single base propellant MEX-NX. All the armaments with all the mechanisms and mount have been tested successfully for their strength, operation, and accuracy. Fire Control Computer The FCC provides ballistic offsets to the gun in azimuth and elevation for different ammunition based upon the range and environmental conditions. The FCC console enables the gunner to key in ammunition type, range, meteorological parameters, mean point of impact, and bore sighting range, etc. Driver's Passive Night Periscope The driver's passive night periscope (DPNP) provides night driving capability to the driver of the Abhay. The DPNP is based on the image intensification technology using 2nd generation image intensifier tube, a fast optical system as OG, and a binocular eye piece for smooth and comfortable vision. Fire control computer. Laser Warning System The laser warning system reduces vehicle's vulnerability to various kinds of laser assisted weapon threats by providing audio and visual warnings of threat to the crew for timely initiation of appropriate countermeasures. Twin Missile Launcher System An integrated twin missile launcher system has been integrated on the Abhay to increase its firepower capability. It has provision for two missiles placed side by side over two guide rails, which in turn are mounted onto a hood. The whole assembly is mounted on top plate of Abhay's turret. Clockwise from top left: Armament fire control unit; two- column feed and ejection system; and 40 mm FSAPDS. Muzzle Bore Sight Modifications have been done to the existing bore muzzle TXP-1-515 of BMP-II to suite the requirement of bore sighting and zeroing of 40 mm gun of Abhay. Abhay: The Salient Features Instrumentation System Mobility The following instrumentation systems have been developed for Abhay's turret system: Powe-to-weight ratio ˜ : 24 hp/ton Maximum gradient ˜ : 35º Gunner's Main Sight Vertical step climbing ˜ : 0.8 m to 0.9 m The Gunner's Main Sight (GMS) is an integrated sight having stabilised head, day sight, thermal imager and LRF with a built-in fire control computer (FCC). All the technolog ies involved and the components used are critical in nature. A modular concept has been adapted to realise the complete system. 11 10 Cruising range ˜ : 400 km Cross-country speed ˜ : 35 kmph August 2009 August 2009 Speed on road ˜ : 70 kmph Fully automatic transmission ˜ Hydro gas suspension ˜ Twin missile launcher. Fire Power Thermal Monitor for Commander A weapon mix of 40 mm caliber gun, 7.62 mm machine gun and 30 mm grenade launcher High velocity 40 mm APFSDS type ammunition and HE ammunition against bunkers ˜ ˜ The thermal monitor, a multi functional display, facilitates the commander to view the image as seen by the gunner. Various keys have been configured for man-machine interface.

11. Technology Commander's Day Periscope Armament System Commander's day periscope provides the facility to the commander for surveillance and designate outside terrain targets when the commander's hatch is closed. Abhay is fitted with a 40 mm caliber main gun; two column feed and ejection system for firing APFSDS and high explosive (HE) ammunition; integrated Armament Fire Control Unit (AFCU); mounting system; and balancing gears. Coaxial mounting system for 7.62 mm PKT, and elevating, firing and cocking mechanisms for 30 mm AGL have also been developed as a secondary armament system. New 40 mm FSAPDS ammunition has also been developed using single base propellant MEX-NX. All the armaments with all the mechanisms and mount have been tested successfully for their strength, operation, and accuracy. Fire Control Computer The FCC provides ballistic offsets to the gun in azimuth and elevation for different ammunition based upon the range and environmental conditions. The FCC console enables the gunner to key in ammunition type, range, meteorological parameters, mean point of impact, and bore sighting range, etc. Driver's Passive Night Periscope The driver's passive night periscope (DPNP) provides night driving capability to the driver of the Abhay. The DPNP is based on the image intensification technology using 2nd generation image intensifier tube, a fast optical system as OG, and a binocular eye piece for smooth and comfortable vision. Fire control computer. Laser Warning System The laser warning system reduces vehicle's vulnerability to various kinds of laser assisted weapon threats by providing audio and visual warnings of threat to the crew for timely initiation of appropriate countermeasures. Twin Missile Launcher System An integrated twin missile launcher system has been integrated on the Abhay to increase its firepower capability. It has provision for two missiles placed side by side over two guide rails, which in turn are mounted onto a hood. The whole assembly is mounted on top plate of Abhay's turret. Clockwise from top left: Armament fire control unit; two- column feed and ejection system; and 40 mm FSAPDS. Muzzle Bore Sight Modifications have been done to the existing bore muzzle TXP-1-515 of BMP-II to suite the requirement of bore sighting and zeroing of 40 mm gun of Abhay. Abhay: The Salient Features Instrumentation System Mobility The following instrumentation systems have been developed for Abhay's turret system: Powe-to-weight ratio ˜ : 24 hp/ton Maximum gradient ˜ : 35º Gunner's Main Sight Vertical step climbing ˜ : 0.8 m to 0.9 m The Gunner's Main Sight (GMS) is an integrated sight having stabilised head, day sight, thermal imager and LRF with a built-in fire control computer (FCC). All the technolog ies involved and the components used are critical in nature. A modular concept has been adapted to realise the complete system. 11 10 Cruising range ˜ : 400 km Cross-country speed ˜ : 35 kmph August 2009 August 2009 Speed on road ˜ : 70 kmph Fully automatic transmission ˜ Hydro gas suspension ˜ Twin missile launcher. Fire Power Thermal Monitor for Commander A weapon mix of 40 mm caliber gun, 7.62 mm machine gun and 30 mm grenade launcher High velocity 40 mm APFSDS type ammunition and HE ammunition against bunkers ˜ ˜ The thermal monitor, a multi functional display, facilitates the commander to view the image as seen by the gunner. Various keys have been configured for man-machine interface.

12. Technology ˜ Second generation antitank guided missile (ATGM) with a range of 75 m to 4000 m Thermal imager sight for night observation LRF for ranging Digital fire control system for high accuracy fire ARDE Armament System ˜ DMRL IRDE Armour Instruments ˜ ˜ VRDE Nodal Lab Development of Hull and turret structure, automotive system, system Integration, testing CVRDE Consultancy on all aspects of development DEBEL Protection Ergonomic Layout and ˜ All around against small arms ˜ Medium caliber cannon protection from front CFEES ˜ NBC protection HEMRL IFSS Ammunition ˜ Integrated fire detection and suppression system DLJ Protection System ˜ Laser warning system ˜ Weight : 23 ton Abhay development programme: DRDO workcentres and their job assignments. ˜ Crew : 3 + 7 lEikndh; eaMy EditorialCommittee ºÉ à É x ´ É ªÉ B É E fun s ’k d] M s l h M k W d, es Vdk W Q gk m l ] fn Y yh Coordinator bÉ ì +É ãÉ à É Ú É Ê iÉ Ç , ºÉ nºªÉ Dr AL Moorthy, Director, DESIDOC, Metcalfe House, Delhi Members bÉ ì ¤ É É Ò +É É ® M É É Æ vÉ ä ,É Ê x É nä ¶ É B É E +É É ªÉ Ö v É É Ê x É nä ¶ É É ãÉ ªÉ , bÉ Ò +É É ® bÉ Ò +É É ä £ É ´ É x É , ® É VÉ É VÉ É Ò à É É M É Ç , x É <Ç É Ê nããÉ É Ò bÉ ì ºÉ Ö n¶ É Ç x É B É Ö E à É É ® ,É Ê x É nä ¶ É B É E ºÉ É à É O É É Ò É Ê x É nä ¶ É É ãÉ ªÉ , bÉ Ò +É É ® bÉ Ò +É É ä £ É ´ É x É , ® É VÉ É VÉ É Ò à É É M É Ç , x É <Ç É Ê nããÉ É Ò gÉ É Ò +É É ® ¶ É Æ B É E ® ,É Ê x É nä ¶ É B É E ´ É É Ò Ax b <ÇÉ Ê x É nä ¶ É É ãÉ ªÉ , bÉ Ò +É É ® bÉ Ò +É É ä £ É ´ É x É , ® É VÉ É VÉ É Ò à É É M É Ç , x É <Ç É Ê nããÉ É Ò B É E à É Æ É b® {É É Ò B É ä EÉ Ê à É gÉ É ,É Ê x É nä ¶ É B É E x É ä B É ãÉ É Ê ´ É YÉ É x É É Ê x É nä ¶ É É ãÉ ªÉ , bÉ Ò +É É ® bÉ Ò +É É ä £ É ´ É x É , ® É VÉ É VÉ É Ò à É É M É Ç , x É <Ç É Ê nããÉ É Ò gÉ É Ò ® x VÉ É Ò iÉ <Ç ãÉ ªÉ É ºÉ ,® FÉ É à É Æ jÉ É Ò B É ä E ´ É è YÉ É É Ê x É B É E ºÉ ãÉ É cB É E É ® B É ä E L Vk W Q+É É Ê v É B É E É ® É Ò ,bÉ Ò +É É ® bÉ Ò +É É ä £ É ´ É x É ® É VÉ É VÉ É Ò à É É M É Ç , x É <Ç É Ê nããÉ É Ò Dr BR Gandhe,Director of Armaments,DRDO Dr Sudarshan Kumar, Bhavan, New Delhi Bhavan, New Delhi Director of Materials, DRDO l h Shri R Shankar,Directorof CV&E, DRDO Bhavan, New Delhi Director of Naval Research & Development DRDO Shri Ranjit Elias, SO to SA to RM, DRDO Bhavan, New Delhi Cmde PK Mishra, Bhavan, New Delhi à É Ö JªÉºÉ à {É É nB É E +ÉãÉà É Ú É Ê iÉ Ç ºÉ c-à É Ö JªÉ ºÉ à {É É nB É E ¶ É ¶ É É Ò iªÉ É M É É Ò ºÉ à {É É nB É E ¤ É É ÒÉ Ê x É iªÉ É x É Æ n à É x É É ä VÉB É Ö E à É É ® Editors B Nityanand Manoj Kumar ºÉ à {É É nB É E É Ò ªÉºÉ cÉ ªÉ B É E nÉ Ò É Ê {iÉ +É ® É ä ® É à É Ö ph É AºÉB É ä EM É Ö {iÉ É cÆ ºÉB É Ö E à É É ® É Ê ´ É {É h É x É +É É ®{É É ÒÉ Ê ºÉ Æ c 12 Editor-in-Chief AL Moorthy Assoc. Editor-in-Chief Shashi Tyagi Editorial Assistant Printing Dipti Arora SK Gupta Hans Kumar Distribution RP Singh August 2009