View source for Abhay IFV

{{Short description|Indian infantry combat vehicle}}
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = Abhay
| image              = Abhay IFV.jpg
| caption            = Mild steel prototype of the Abhay
| origin             = India
| type               = [[Infantry combat vehicle]]
<!-- Type selection -->| is_artillery       = 
| is_vehicle         = yes
<!-- Service history -->| service            = 
| used_by            = 
| wars               = <!-- Production history -->
| designer           = [[DRDO]]
| design_date        = ~1997 - 2008
| manufacturer       = [[DRDO]]
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = 
| number             = 2
| variants           = <!-- General specifications -->
| spec_label         = 
| weight             = 23 tons (25 tons with ERA)
| length             = 
| part_length        = 
| width              = 
| height             = 
| diameter           = 
| crew               = 3 (commander, driver, gunner)<br>7 Troops
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->| cartridge          = 40x329mmR autocannon, 30x29mm AGL
| caliber            = 40 mm
| barrels            = 
| action             = 
| rate               = 
| velocity           = 
| range              = 
| max_range          = 
| feed               = Two column feed and ejection system
| sights             = <!-- Artillery specifications -->
| breech             = 
| recoil             = 
| carriage           = 
| elevation          = 
| traverse           = <!-- Vehicle/missile specifications -->
| armour             = 
| primary_armament   = [[Bofors 40 mm Automatic Gun L/70|40 mm L/70 autocannon]] (210 rounds)
| secondary_armament = 7.62 mm [[PKT machine gun|PKT]] coaxial [[machine gun]]<br>30 mm [[AGS-17]] [[automatic grenade launcher]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Armament System for ICV- ABHAY {{!}} Defence Research and Development Organisation - DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Government of India |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/armament-system-icv-abhay |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=www.drdo.gov.in}}</ref>
| engine             = [[Greaves Cotton]] TD2V8 diesel engine
| engine_power       = 410 kW (550 hp)
| pw_ratio           = 24 hp/ton
| transmission       = Full automatic gearbox
| payload_capacity   = 
| suspension         = [[Hydropneumatic suspension]]
| clearance          = 
| fuel_capacity      = 
| vehicle_range      = 400&nbsp;km
| speed              = 35&nbsp;km/h (cross country) <br>70 km/h (road)
| guidance           = 
| steering           = 
| accuracy           = 
| launch_platform    = 
| transport          = 
}}
<!-- [http://www.kanwa.com/free/2004/02/ABHAY.JPG http://www.kanwa.com/free/2004/02/ABHAY.JPG] -->

'''Abhay''' ([[Sanskrit]]: अभय, ''"Fearless"'') was an [[infantry combat vehicle]] created under a tech-demonstration program started in [[India]] by the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] or DRDO. As its first IFV project, Abhay was designed to provide experience in the construction of [[Armoured fighting vehicle|AFV]] components to DRDO, serve as a replacement to India's vast BMP fleet used in its [[Mechanised Infantry Regiment]]s (changed later on), and serve as a test bed for weapons and systems to be used on future vehicles, as well as to be a reference for the designs of future vehicles.

A majority of the systems on the vehicle were indigenously (locally) developed as projected, excluding 3 out of 4 weapons systems and the power pack.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Defence Annual Report 2007-2008 |url=https://mod.gov.in/sites/default/files/AR8.pdf |access-date=14 January 2023}}</ref>

The program began in the mid-1990's. By 2003, the development of the first [[Mild Steel]] prototype was completed and the development of the first armoured prototype was in progress. By 2004, various stages of the vehicle were in the advanced stages of development. By 2005, the first prototype was integrated and tested with indigenous components and the second one was either completed or undergoing testing. By 2008, the Abhay program was officially declared successfully completed by DRDO in the [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] Annual Report of 2007–2008.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Defence Annual Report 2002-2003 |url=https://mod.gov.in/sites/default/files/MOD-English2003_0.pdf |access-date=14 January 2024}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Defence annual Report 2003-2004 |url=https://mod.gov.in/sites/default/files/MOD-English2004.pdf |access-date=14 January 2024}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Defence Annual Report 2004-2005 |url=https://mod.gov.in/sites/default/files/MOD-English2005_0.pdf |access-date=14 January 2024}}</ref><ref name=":0" />

Allegedly, [https://www.drdo.gov.in/app/shri-m-natarajan Mr. M Natarajan], at the time recently appointed Director General of DRDO, stated about the Abhay in 2004: "The Abhay is under development. We see it as the future infantry combat vehicle for the Army. It will be a replacement for the Russian made BMPs that the Army has. It should be ready in two years."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Abhay |url=https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/abhay.htm |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=www.globalsecurity.org}}</ref> This was not clarified later on for unknown reasons and the BMP fleet is yet to be replaced with the FICV program in progress.

==History==
In 1975, the [[Government of India|Indian Government]] appointed an expert panel to undertake a long-term perspective plan for the army. The committee, also called the Krishna Rao Committee Report, was headed by Lieutenant General (later General) [[K. V. Krishna Rao|K.V Krishna Rao]]. It was mandated to present a perspective till the year 2000, and was required to evaluate national security threats, propose a strategy against them, visualise the future battlefield, determine the size of the army and suggest an incremental build-up of forces. 40 Wide-ranging discussions were carried out by the committee with a number of agencies.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Chadha |first=Vivek |title=An Assessment of Organisational Change in the Indian Army |url=https://idsa.in/system/files/jds/jds_9_4_2015_IndianArmy.pdf |access-date=14 January 2024 |website=idsa.in}}</ref>

A part of the report followed-up on the limited mechanisation of the army that had begun in 1969 with the induction of [[OT-62 TOPAS|TOPAS]] and [[OT-64 SKOT|SKOT]] armoured personnel carriers. As a result of its recommendations, the [[Mechanised Infantry Regiment]] was raised on 2 April 1979, with 14 initial battalions equipped with [[BMP-1]], followed by a further 13 battalions equipped with [[BMP-2]] ICVs by 1990. These changes significantly boosted the offensive/defensive potential of the Indian Army as the regiment provided significant firepower and mobility in any potential conflict. It also kept the doctrine of the armed forces modern, as mechanised infantry were standard practice in other major armed forces by this time.<ref name=":4" />

Technological advancements in the field of armoured vehicles would continue after the collapse of the Soviet Union through DRDO. With the end of the cold war, major changes in the government and liberalization of the Indian economy, India began to focus on self-reliance in all fields. Defence was a major subject to his change, as at the time most of the military equipment in use by the armed forces was imported, resulting in the funding and creation of more arms development programs.

The Abhay was a part of the program to replace aging [[armoured fighting vehicles]] with modern ones that fit into the vision of self-reliance. By the mid 1990's, with the invention of modern technologies like thermal sights, digital screens, more effective [[Explosive reactive armor|ERA/]][[Non-explosive reactive armor|NERA]] etc. the need for a new IFV was apparent and its development feasible. The BMP was no longer competitive as a main-stay IFV for the army as it was designed for a different doctrine that emphasised quantity over quality which meant it was not technologically advanced and thus unable to combat vehicles that were, without the use of the aforementioned doctrine, that India did not follow. This was highlighted in the [[Gulf War]] when BMPs under the service of the [[Iraqi Ground Forces|Iraqi Army]] were out-ranged, outperformed and destroyed by coalition armored vehicles. Thus the Abhay technology-demonstrator project was started, to locally develop modern technologies that could be incorporated into a replacement for the BMPs that were in service with the [[Mechanised Infantry Regiment]], and to prove that DRDO could complete self-reliance in arms development and procurement.

Development suffered delays from 1998 to 1999 due to the sanctions imposed on [[India]] by multiple countries in consequence of [[Pokhran-II]] nuclear tests conducted that year.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-15 |title=India's Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle: Abhay IFV |url=https://ssbcrackexams.com/infantry-combat-vehicle-abhay-ifv/ |access-date=2024-01-14 |language=en-US}}</ref> According to Indian Ministry of Defence annual reports released from 2003 to 2008, development of the mild steel hull prototype was completed by 2003, and was being used for testing the automotive systems of the Abhay. The development of the armoured steel prototype was in progress at the same time. By 2004, various stages of the vehicle were in the advanced stages of development, and by 2005 the armoured prototype of the Abhay was complete, using indigenously developed automotive and weapon systems, and armour.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3" />

In 2008, DRDO stated about the Abhay:<ref name=":0" /><blockquote>"The multi-disciplinary, multi-laboratory, Technology Demonstration Programme for development of Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) Abhay, has been successfully completed during the year having realized two prototypes. The successful development programme has imparted a boost to the self-reliance in defence technology. The technologies developed under this programme, such as fire control system, composite armour, hydro-pneumatic suspension and host of other automotive and armament sub-systems can be adopted for futuristic ICV and light tracked vehicle projects."</blockquote>Only two prototypes were made of the Abhay, a mild steel prototype and an armoured prototype.

As of 14 January 2024, DRDO has worked with [[Larsen & Toubro|L&T]] to develop and test the [[Zorawar LT|Zorawar light tank]], the first batch of which is to be delivered to the army in April 2024. The tank uses some of the systems developed on the Abhay, such as an Integrated Fire Suppression System or [[Fire suppression system|IFSS.]]<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=DRDO starts trials of light tank Zorawar, to hand over project to Army in months |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/armys-light-tank-zorawar-project-undertaken-by-drdo-initial-trials-underway-2488107-2024-01-13 |access-date=2024-01-14 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>

==Design==
[[File:Abhay IFV hulls.png|thumb|233x233px|Hulls of both prototypes AP-I and AP-II (top and bottom respectively).]]
Because the development of the Abhay required several technologies in the fields of materials, electronics, instrumentation, armaments, etc. Multiple [[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]] laboratories were involved in the development of this ICV. These were:<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |date=Aug 2009 |title=Technologies for Light Armoured Tracked Vehicles |url=http://www.drdo.com/pub/techfocus/2009/aug09.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090824164402/http://www.drdo.com/pub/techfocus/2009/aug09.pdf |archive-date=24 August 2009 |access-date=2024-01-14}}</ref>

* [[Instruments Research and Development Establishment|IRDE]] - Development of instruments (gunner and commander sights, periscopes)
* [[Armament Research and Development Establishment|ARDE]] - Development of the armament system 
* [[Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory|DMRL]] - Development of composite armour
* [[High Energy Materials Research Laboratory|HEMRL]] - Development of ammunition
* [[Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety|CFEES]] - Development of the IFSS
* [[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory|DEBEL]] - Development of the Ergonomic layout
* [[Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment|CVRDE]] - Consultancy on all aspects of development
* [[Defence Laboratory|DLJ]] - Development of electronic protection systems (Laser Warning System)

[[Vehicle Research and Development Establishment|VRDE]] carried out the basic design and development of hull and turret envelopes, [[Powerpack (drivetrain)|power pack]], [[Gear|running gear]], suspension, electronics, automotive systems, system integration, and testing.<ref name=":6" />

=== Hull ===
The hull on both prototypes housed automotive, armament, and running gear systems as well as the turret basket. Out of two prototypes, the first prototype was made from mild steel, whereas the second prototype was made from locally-developed compound steel.<ref name=":6" /> The development of the hull helped [[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]] in understanding how to create an armoured hull through edge preparation, specialised welding and armour bending techniques. [[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]] laboratory [[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory]] (DEBEL) based in [[Bengaluru]] designed the [[Human factors and ergonomics|ergonomical]] layout of Abhay.<ref>[http://frontierindia.net/drdos-life-saving-products-save-foreign-exchange-too DRDO's Life saving products save foreign exchange too] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081007082156/http://frontierindia.net/drdos-life-saving-products-save-foreign-exchange-too|date=7 October 2008}}, [[FIDSNS]], 30 August 2007</ref>

=== Turret ===
The mild steel prototype used a polygonal shaped turret with sloped armor all around to increase protection by decreasing penetration.<ref name=":6" /> For the armoured prototype, a rounded turret (more square than round, but is described as round anyways) was made with the same composite armor as the hull again to increase protection by decreasing penetration.<ref name=":6" /> The turret accommodated the gunner and commander housing the electronics and mechanics related to both roles i.e primary and secondary armament systems, sights and monitors, [[Fire-control system|fire control system]], etc. Both turrets had suspended light-weight turret baskets, and both the commander and gunner had adjustable seats. Bearing meshed with pinion gear helped in turret traverse and was driven by lightweight precision servo gear drives. [[Gun stabilizer|Stabilization]] of the turret was provided through a turret lock when required.<ref name=":6" />

==== Instrumentation ====
Multiple instruments were indigenously developed by IRDE for the Abhay, including but not limited to:<ref name=":6" />

* Gunners Main Sight

An integrated, [[Gun stabilizer|stabilized]] day sight complemented by a [[Thermographic camera|thermal imager]] and [[Laser rangefinder|laser range finder]] with a built-in fire control computer. All the technologies involved and the components used are critical in nature. A modular concept was adapted to realise complete the system.<ref name=":6" />

*Commanders Thermal Monitor
[[File:Abhay IFV FCS.png|thumb|180x180px|Fire Control System developed for the Abhay IFV. The blue buttons are to input variables such as range, ammunition type, weapon system, etc. There are switches to turn the system on and visible screws on the corners to hold the FCS in.]]
The thermal monitor, a multi-functional display, facilitates the commander to view targets through thermal imaging as the gunner would. This thermal monitor uses keys to change settings instead of a touch screen common in modern vehicles.<ref name=":6" />

* Commanders Day Periscope

Provides a secondary way of surveillance and target designation to the commander when the commanders hatch is closed.<ref name=":6" />

* Driver's passive night periscope.

Provides night driving capability to the driver when the usage of lights is unavailable. It is based on image intensification technology using a second-generation image intensifier tube, a fast optical system as OG(?), and a binocular eye piece for comfortable vision.<ref name=":6" />

* Fire Control Computer

The [[Fire control computer|Fire Control Computer]] (FCC) provides [[Ballistics|ballistic]] offsets to the gun in azimuth and elevation for different ammunition types 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 [[Boresight (firearm)|bore sighting]] range, etc. before calculating precise offset.<ref name=":6" />

* Muzzle Bore Sight

Modified from the existing TXP-1-515 sight used for the BMP-2 to accurately perform the same function on the larger 40mm [[autocannon]] of the Abhay.<ref name=":6" />

== Protection ==
[[File:Abhay IFV armor testing.png|thumb|183x183px|Penetration testing on elements of the composite armor of the Abhay. Ceramic armor (left), anti-fragment armor/spall liners (right), titanium armor (top).]]
The protection rating of the Abhay was vastly improved as compared to the BMP-2, as its replacement (later on the FICV program) would need much better protection against mines, small arms fire, shell fragments, and other threats it was very likely to face face. Therefore, the protection of the Abhay was ensured through multiple layers and systems.<ref name=":6" />

* Armour

The second of two prototypes (the first one was only for testing automotive systems) had all around protection against small arms and frontal protection from medium caliber cannons. It was developed using compound steel, behind which lay a recently indigenously developed composite armor consisting of multi-ceramic armor, high-hardness steel armor, titanium armor, dual hardness [[spaced armour|spaced armor]], and anti-fragment armor at various locations. This led to a weight reduction of more than 40% in comparison with steel for equivalent protection. More than 300 armour components were fabricated to specific shapes, sizes and configurations to be made and tested on the armoured prototypes.<ref name=":6" />

* ERA

A lighter impact version of Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) with mounting fixtures was developed for the Abhay, which offered protection without any damage to the hull armour of the Abhay.<ref name=":6" />

* NBC Protection System

This [[Nuclear, biological and chemical|NBC]] (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) protection system is the same as the modernised one which was tested and developed for the BMP-2. It consists of a [[Radiation]] Detection Measurement and Control (RADMAC) Unit, Automatic Control Unit (ACU), Blower Control Unit (BCU) and is automated.

* Integrated Fire Suppression System

An Integrated [[Fire suppression system|Fire Suppression System]] (IFSS) was developed for the Abhay to protect the ICV from fires in the engine and crew compartment. It comprises the Main Control Unit (MCU), [[Infrared|IR]] Detection Units, [[Fire extinguisher|Automatic Fire Extinguisher]] (AFE), [[Portable fire extinguisher|Portable Fire Extinguisher]] (PFE), Electrical Pyro Cartridge, Linear Thermal Detection, Alarm Unit (AU), Emergency Switch Unit (ESU), [[Cable harness|Cable Harness]], and [[Fire suppression system|IFSS]] System software.<ref name=":6" />

* Laser Warning System

The Abhay also features a [[Laser warning receiver|laser warning system]] which reduces the vehicles vulnerability to [[Laser guidance|laser-guided weapons]] by providing visual and auditory of any laser guided threats to the crew for the timely initiation of countermeasures.<ref name=":6" />

== Firepower ==
The Abhay is equipped with multiple weapon systems capable of anti-air and anti-tank combat in urban as well as rural engagements, all controlled by the DRDO-developed [[Fire-control system|FCS]].<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":3" />

=== Armament ===
''Primary armament:''<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=Armament System for ICV- ABHAY {{!}} Defence Research and Development Organisation - DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Government of India |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/armament-system-icv-abhay |access-date=2024-01-14 |website=www.drdo.gov.in}}</ref><ref name=":6" />

* [[Bofors 40 mm Automatic Gun L/70|Bofors 40 mm L/70]] autocannon using a 40x365mmR [[Cartridge (firearms)|cartridge]] with 3 standard [[rate of fire]] settings, 240 rounds/min, 300 rounds/min, 330 rounds/min. On the Abhay, the Bofors 40mm L/70 [[autocannon]] is fed rounds through a dual column feed and ejection system allowing for the gun to be use two types of rounds without the need to change any ammunition belts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dr. Shailendra V Gade {{!}} Defence Research and Development Organisation - DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Government of India |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/dr-shailendra-v-gade |access-date=2024-01-14 |website=www.drdo.gov.in}}</ref> It is capable of firing 40&nbsp;mm [[Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot|APFSDS]] rounds able to penetrate 100mm [[Rolled homogeneous armour|RHA]] at a range of 1000m/1&nbsp;km for armored targets as well as [[High-explosive fragmentation|HE]] rounds for soft targets and bunkers.<ref name=":6" /> The barrel is progressively rifled, indigeniously developed for the first time in the country for a low calibre gun.<ref name=":7" />
* Twin [[Anti-tank guided missile|ATGM]] launcher capable of carrying and firing a [[Bharat Electronics|BEL]] modified [[MILAN|Milan]] [[Anti-tank guided missile|ATGM]] with an improved range of 3000m/3&nbsp;km (possibly up to 4000m).<ref name=":3" /> It has space for two missiles placed side by side over two guide rails, which in turn are mounted onto the right side of the turret roof.<ref name=":6" /> The launcher system was also tested with the [[9M113 Konkurs|9M113 Konkurs-M]] ATGM.

''Secondary Armament:''<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":6" />

* [[AGS-17|Automatic Grenade Launcher 17]] (Russian Designation AGS-17 "Plamya"), which uses a 30x29 mm cartridge for 30&nbsp;mm grenades, with a standard [[rate of fire]] of 400 rounds/min with an effective firing range of 800 to 1,700 m. The feed system uses a 29 grenade belt.
* 7.62&nbsp;mm solenoid-fired co-axial [[PKT machine gun]] with a standard [[rate of fire]] of 100 rounds/min, and a 250-round magazine. The PKT has a higher muzzle velocity and higher cyclic rate of fire then other [[PK machine gun]] variants. It can fire 500 rounds in rapid fire scenarios before meltdown.
[[File:Abhay IFV FCU and autocannon with ammunition.png|thumb|Top left, the Fire Control Unit of the Abhay switched on, with lights to indicate the status of different systems and switches to select weapons and turn it off. Top right, a 3D model of the Bofors L/70 autocannon displaying the dual column feed and ejection system developed by DRDO, with ammunition being fed from the bottom and ejected from the cartridge on the top, upwards. Bottom, an APFSDS shell for the aforementioned autocannon.]]

=== Fire control system ===
Equipped with an all-electric [[Fire-control system|FCS]] and stabilisation of the turret developed in association with private sector industry (possibly [[Bharat Electronics|BEL]]), the purpose of the all-electric FCS is to position the 40&nbsp;mm main gun on the ICV on target with the correct [[azimuth]] and [[elevation]], and to provide twin-axis stabilisation to the weapon platform against external disturbances.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=All Electric Type Weapon Control System for ICV {{!}} Defence Research and Development Organisation - DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Government of India |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/all-electric-type-weapon-control-system-icv |access-date=2024-01-14 |website=www.drdo.gov.in}}</ref>

The whole system is an [[electromechanical]] system, using brush-less drives with backlash free elevation and traverse gearboxes coupled to turret ring for rotation in [[azimuth]]<ref name=":8" /> The system employs vector control technology implemented through digital controllers and [[Insulated-gate bipolar transistor|insulated gate bipolar transistor]] based power amplifiers for control of the stabiliser. It uses state-of-the-art fibre optic gyros as feedback elements to receive input on vehicle speed to apply the correct amount of stabilisation. The system has an interface for live connection and interaction with the [[Fire-control system|Fire Control System]] and [[Battlefield management system|Battlefield Management System]], using a combined day and night sight integrated with a [[Laser rangefinder|Laser Range Finder]] for the purpose of automatically ranging the distance to a target. The whole system has excellent accuracy levels comparable with contemporary systems.<ref name=":8" />

The finished system was tested using both prototypes on cross-country terrain and successfully test fired all armaments on static targets. Being an indigenous development, the FCS can be configured as required to work on similar weapons/allied platforms.<ref name=":8" />

==== Salient features ====

Source:<ref name=":8" />

* Provides fire on move capability
* Operates in various modes, viz., self-stab and sight-master mode
* Inbuilt provision for equipment testing
* Interlocks for safe operation
* Dual control through gunner and commander joysticks with override facility to commander

==== Technical specifications ====

Source:<ref name=":8" />

* Traverse and elevation rates
* Max.: 40o/s
* Min.: 0.04o/s
* Stabilisation: 0.8 mil/s (1s)
* Acceleration: >50o/s2
* Drift Rate: <0.1mil/s

== Mobility ==
All of the Abhay's automotive systems excluding the Engine are indigenous projects.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":3" /><ref name=":0" />

=== Engine ===
The engine used to power the Abhay is the [[Greaves Cotton]] TD2V8 550 horsepower turbocharged diesel engine with a power-to-weight ratio of 24 horsepower per tonne (24&nbsp;hp/tonne), able to push the vehicle to an on-road speed of 70&nbsp;km/h, cross-country speed of 35&nbsp;km/h, and a cruising range of 400&nbsp;km.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Indian Abhay Infantry Fighting Vehicle |url=http://tanknutdave.com/the-indian-abhay-infantry-fighting-vehicle/ |access-date=2024-01-14 |website=TankNutDave.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":6" />

=== Power pack ===
[[File:Abhay IFV Compact power pack system (left) and air intake and cooling system.png|thumb|247x247px|Compact power pack system (left) and air intake and cooling system.]]
Abhay ran on a 550&nbsp;hp indigenous turbocharged diesel engine with Hydro Mechanical Power Transmission (HMPT)-500-3EC fully automatic cross-drive transmission of M/s [[David Brown Ltd.|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 was indigenously designed and developed. The compact cooling system with hydraulic drives is capable of withstanding temperatures ranging from -10 degree Celsius to +55 degree Celsius. The steering and brake system integrated with automatic transmission were controlled through indigenously developed actuation system and linkage mechanism. An indigenous Power Distribution System (PDU) distributed power to the compressor, generator, cooling fan, etc. Lightweight final drives offset using aluminium casings were also developed indigenously.<ref name=":6" />

=== Suspension system ===
The hydro strut suspension of Abhay utilised the proven advantages of a pneumatic spring. The hydro damper could be adapted to both tracked prototypes. 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&nbsp;mm, and bounce and rebound of 300&nbsp;mm and 100&nbsp;mm, respectively.<ref name=":6" />

The technologies used during the development of the hydro gas suspension system include surface finishing and surface coating techniques, sealing materials, manufacturing techniques for seals, test cycles, and testing procedure.<ref name=":6" />

=== Running gear system ===
The indigenously developed running gear system of the Abhay comprises a double pin, and rubber track with a central horn.<ref name=":5" />

The [[axle]] arms, [[sprocket]]s, [[Idler-wheel|idler wheels]], road wheels, and track tension mechanism have also been indigenously designed and developed.<ref name=":6" />

=== Advance automotive dashboard ===
An indigenous advance automotive dashboard with various sensors was developed and integrated on the vehicle. The dashboard was interfaced with [[Global Positioning System|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.<ref name=":6" />

== Futuristic infantry combat vehicle (FICV) ==
The Abhay ICV was a [[technology demonstration]] programme to replace the [[Indian Army]]'s aging [[infantry fighting vehicle]]s. Multiple attempts were followed to replace the [[BMP-2]] fleet with the '''futuristic infantry combat vehicle (FICV)''' programme.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Abhay |url=https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/abhay.htm |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=www.globalsecurity.org}}</ref> As of 2021, BMP-2 is the mainstay of the [[mechanised infantry]] arm with around 49 battalions including 51 vehicles each.<ref name=":9" />

=== 2007–2012 ===
The initial requirements of a modern but indigenous infantry fighting vehicle was felt in mid-2000s by the Indian Army.

The FICV programme was launched in 2007 as '''FICV Project 2017''' which planned to start induction of the selected platform after trials by 2017. The project would be undertaken on a [[private-public partnership]] model.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |date=2017-10-06 |title=FICV Tangle – needs early resolution |url=https://indiandefencereview.com/ficv-tangle-needs-early-resolution/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":14">{{Cite web |last=Katoch |first=Lt Gen Retd P. C. |date=2019-02-18 |title=The FICV Story - Ongoing for Decades, Unsure Future |url=https://raksha-anirveda.com/the-ficv-story-ongoing-for-decades-unsure-future/ |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=raksha-anirveda.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The FICV Project — delayed inordinately |url=https://www.spsmai.com/experts-speak/?id=437&q=The-FICV-Project-delayed-inordinately |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=www.spsmai.com}}</ref> The cost of the programme was estimated at {{INRConvert|26000|c|lk=on|year=2009}}.<ref name=":9" /><ref name=":10" />

In October 2009, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]], approved the acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the FICV project. Then the [[Expression of Interest]] was launched in 2010 after formulating the General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR) from the Indian Army. The GSQR mandated the FICV to have a configuration of three crew members and seven soldiers, a ballistic protection from [[14.5 × 114 mm|14.5mm]] rounds, and must be amphibious and air-transportable. Secondary armaments should include a [[grenade launcher]], [[co-axial machine gun]], and be capable of firing [[anti-tank missiles]]. The EoI was sent to [[Mahindra & Mahindra|Mahindra Defence Systems]], [[Tata Motors]], [[Larsen & Toubro]] (L&T) and the [[Ordnance Factory Board]] (OFB). Meanwhile Russia had offered their [[BMP-3]] for the project.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":14" />

However, the EoI was cancelled in 2012 even though the selection of a winning private company began as upgradation of existing system was expected to suffice.<ref name=":10">{{Cite news |date=2019-01-02 |title=Army's Rs 60,000-cr FICV project stuck in procedural delays: official sources |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/army-s-rs-60-000-cr-ficv-project-stuck-in-procedural-delays-official-sources-119010200515_1.html |access-date=2025-04-04 |work=Business Standard}}</ref><ref name=":9" />

=== 2014–2019 ===
Another acceptance of necessity (AoN) was granted for the FICV project which would now include additional private sector companies [[Reliance Defence and Engineering|Pipavav Defence]], [[Tata Motors]], [[Bharat Forge]], [[Rolta]], [[Punj Lloyd]] and [[Titagarh Wagons]] other than the precious companies.

On 16 July 2015, another Expression of Interest from the Government invited 10 companies for FICV development. Responses to the EOI had to be submitted by 17 January 2016. The programme was categorised under Make-I category of Defence Procurement Procedure-2008 (DPP-2008).<ref name=":11">{{Cite news |date=2016-01-16 |title=Govt gives ordnance factories free pass in combat vehicle project |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/govt-gives-ordnance-factories-free-pass-in-combat-vehicle-project-116011600033_1.html |access-date=2025-04-04 |work=Business Standard}}</ref> The companies were allowed to form consortiums to bid for the programme contract. A maximum of five consortiums were allowed, a company could not bid through more than one such consortium. Companies were encouraged to partner with foreign companies "to bring home latest technologies on a licence basis to strengthen indigenous know-how". Two competing consortiums were to be selected as Development Agencies (DA) for prototype development. Further, one design would be chosen for induction in large numbers after extensive field trials of the prototypes. A total of 2,610 vehicles was required.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |date=2016-02-05 |title=Ministry of Defence may cancel EoI for $7.5-bn vehicle project |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/policy/economy-ministry-of-defence-may-cancel-eoi-for-7-5-bn-vehicle-project-207497/ |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref>

On 16 January 2016, OFB was nominated by the Ministry while the rest of nine companies would still be competing for the contract. The deadile to submit responses was extended to 15 February for others. Moreover, the expected price to be spent by the nominated companies was increased by {{INRConvert|800|c|lk=on|year=2015}} [from the initial approximate of {{INRConvert|1000|c|lk=on|year=2015}}] though 80% of the development was to be paid by the government. The entire decision was to be challenged by the other competitors. Four parameters were placed for evaluation of the proposal: financial, technical capability, criticaltechnology and technical Specification. Clear rejection criteria were also placed based on product competence. Reportedly, there were only few "serious" competitors including L&T, Tatas, Mahindras and OFB.<ref name=":11" /><ref name=":15">{{Cite web |date=2015-12-07 |title=Make in India in Defence: Tatas bidding for FICV project to bring group companies together |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/business/companies/make-in-india-in-defence-tatas-bidding-for-ficv-project-to-bring-group-companies-together/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250406030141/https://indianexpress.com/article/business/companies/make-in-india-in-defence-tatas-bidding-for-ficv-project-to-bring-group-companies-together/ |archive-date=2025-04-06 |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>

On 5 February, it was reported that the Ministry of Defence had planned to cancel and reissue the EoI which will incorporate the requirements of the latest DPP-2016 and mandated an increased minimum 40% indigenous content from the earlier 30%. Four assessment categories were identified to choose the development agencies. DRDO was chosen as the "technical evaluation agency" and would not "be competing/participating as a potential partner for any of the 40 key technologies identified by the army in its proposal".<ref name=":12" />

The move was again considered on 28 May as the DPP-2016 was still under formation in February and had then be notified.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-05-28 |title=Fresh EoI for $7.5-billion combat vehicle programme likely |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/policy/economy-indian-armys-futuristic-infantry-combat-vehicle-7-5-bn-eoi-likely-267904/ |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref> Reportedly, eight EoIs were formally submitted to the MoD while Rolta and Punj Lloyd opted to stay out of the competition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=FICV: And then there were eight {{!}} Shephard |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ficv-and-then-there-were-eight/ |access-date=2025-04-06 |website=www.shephardmedia.com |language=en}}</ref>

However, the process stalled in 2018 as a private company offered the competition to be majorly funded by the industry instead of the government. Six companies had responded to the Army's [[Expression of Interest]].<ref name=":10" /><ref name=":9" />

By 2019, a total of 2,600 vehicles were to be procured at a cost of {{INRConvert|60000|c|lk=|year=2019}}. Induction was planned by 2025. There were multiple delays in the programme as well due to differences between the Army headquarters and the [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] (MoD). Also, extensive modification were made to the technical requirements and a new tender was released.<ref name=":10" /><ref name=":9" />

=== 2021–present ===
As a third attempt to acquire infantry fighting vehicles, the Indian Army released a [[Request for Information]] for the procurement of 1,750 [[tracked vehicles]] for its [[mechanised infantry]] arm at an estimated cost of {{INRConvert|50000|c|lk=|year=2021}}, designated as '''FICV (Tracked)''' on 23 June 2021. Of the total requirement, 55% would be '''FICV (Tr) Gun Version''', 25% would be '''FICV(Tr) [[Reconnaissance|Command & Surveillance]] Version''' and 20% would be '''FICV''' '''(Tr) [[Command and control|Command]] Version'''. FICV (Tr) was mandated to begin deliveries from the second year of signing the contract at the rate of 75-100 vehicles per year. The vehicle to be offered in the tender was required to navigate plains and desserts along India's Western borders as well as high-altitude mountainous terrains of Northern borders. The selected FICV design would be inducted in three stages, namely, [[Low rate initial production|'''Limited Series Production''']] (10% induction over two years), '''Product Imrovement''' (40% induction over 6–7 years) and '''First Upgrade''' (rest of the vehicles with technical upgrades, besides product improvement aspects).<ref>{{Cite news |date=2021-07-23 |title=REQUEST FOR INFORMATION FOR FUTURISTIC INFANTRY COMBAT VEHICLE (TRACKED) |url=https://indianarmy.nic.in/writereaddata/RFI/794/RFI%20FICV(Tr)%2023%20June%202021.pdf |access-date=2025-04-04 |work=indianarmy.nic.in}}</ref>

After studying the response of the industry to the RFI, the Indian Army would forward its technical requirement to the Ministry of Defence for further approval and formal launch of a tender. Then, prototypes will be constructed by selected companies for evaluation. Formal induction of the selected design will take place before 2028-29. Indian manufacturers like [[Mahindra & Mahindra]], [[Tata Group|Tata]], [[Bharat Forge]], [[Larsen & Toubro]] as well as foreign companies like [[Rosoboronexport]] (Russia), [[General Dynamics]] (the USA) and [[Rheinmetall]] (Germany) among others were expected to bid for the contract.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2021-06-24 |title=Army seeks infantry combat vehicles: What are they & why it's taken 3 attempts to acquire them |url=https://theprint.in/defence/army-seeks-infantry-combat-vehicles-what-are-they-why-its-taken-3-attempts-to-acquire-them/683824/ |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-06-24 |title=New RFI issued for the long delayed FICV for the Indian Army |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-new-rfi-issued-for-the-long-delayed-ficv-for-the-indian-army-2277914/ |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref>

While all the variants would be manned by a crew of three, the Gun Version would need to carry eight soldiers and the rest (Command and Command & Surveillance Versions) will have a capacity of four soldiers. Besides traditional armaments, the FICV will also carry [[mini UAV]]s and [[loitering munition]]s. Further, the loitering munitions were mandated to have a [[data link]] range of 10&nbsp;km with an endurance of an hour with multi-mission capabilities.<ref name=":9" />

On 22 December 2022, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the Ministry of Defence, approved the acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the FICV project. The Ministry reaffirmed the requirement of a manned or unmanned turret equipped with an [[autocannon]] of at least [[30mm calibre|30&nbsp;mm calibre]] as primary armament, a [[coaxial machine gun]] (7.62&nbsp;mm) along with a top-attack [[anti-tank guided missile]] (ATGMs) launcher and [[Remote controlled weapon system|remote-controlled weapon system]] (RCWS) with [[Heavy machine gun|12.7&nbsp;mm machine gun]]. Further, the order was to be split between L1 and L2 bidders (lowest and second lowest commercial bidders, respectively) and commercial bids was needed o be summited before the commencement of prototype trials. Prototype was to be developed within 36 months. Orders will be split between the bidders in 60:40 ratio if L2 bidder meets the price of L1 bidder.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 December 2022 |title=Defence Acquisition Council approves Acceptance of Necessity for 24 Capital Acquisition Proposals, worth Rs 84,328 crore... |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1885838 |access-date=2025-04-04 |work=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=22 December 2022 |title=AoN DETAILS FOR PROCUREMENT OF FUTURISTIC INFANTRY COMBAT VEHICLE |url=https://mod.gov.in/sites/default/files/Details%20of%20Post%20AoN%20for%20FICV%20%28Tr%29.pdf |access-date=2025-04-04 |work=mod.gov.in}}</ref>

As of 5 July 2024, the [[Request for Proposal]] (RfP), the formal tender, for the induction of over 500 ICVs to replace the equipment of 50 mechanised infantry battalions was in advanced stages of formulation. Reportedly, 15 Indian vendors had responded to the earlier RFI and some of their issues were being actively worked out.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Mayank |date=2024-07-05 |title=Infantry combat vehicle bidding process reaches advanced stage |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Jul/05/infantry-combat-vehicle-bidding-process-reaches-advanced-stage |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>

== FICV contenders ==

=== Larsen & Toubro ===
As of November 2024, Larsen & Toubro had already developed its FICV platform, based on Abhay IFV, alongside the [[Zorawar (tank)|Zorawar tank]] and was upgrading the platform to meet the latest requirements of the RFP.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-09 |title=Fortune India Exclusive: L&T eyes big growth in defence and aerospace |url=https://www.fortuneindia.com/enterprise/fortune-exclusive-lt-eyes-big-growth-in-defence-and-aerospace/119127#google_vignette |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=www.fortuneindia.com |language=en}}</ref> The platform was earlier unveiled in DefExpo in October 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |title=FIRST LOOK of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Future Infantry Fighting Vehicle (FICV) |url=https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2022/10/first-look-of-larsen-toubro-l-future.html?m=1 |access-date=2025-04-05}}</ref> Earlier in January 2023, [[Allison Transmission]] was selected by L&T to provide its 3040 MX propulsion system for the FICV platform also used on [[Mobile Protected Firepower]] [[light tank]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Allison Transmission Selected by Larsen and Toubro Limited for India's New Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) |url=https://www.allisontransmission.com/newsroom/article/2023/01/18/allison-transmission-selected-by-larsen-and-toubro-limitedforindia-s-new-futuristic-infantry-combat-vehicle-(ficv) |access-date=2025-04-05 |website=www.allisontransmission.com |language=en}}</ref>

=== Tata and Bharat Forge ===

==== 2014–2019 ====
As of 7 December 2015, the [[Tata Group]] was reportedly working to bring eight of its subsidiaries under one consortium to bid for the FICV project. As per a report, [[Tata Motors]] will be the lead systems integrator and mobility systems provider, [[Tata Advanced Systems]] will work on mission electronics and high technology absorption of electronics, [[Tata Power SED]] on systems and weapon integration, Tata Advanced Material Limited on armour manufacturing and integration, TAL Manufacturing Limited on heavy fabrication and hull manufacturing, [[Titan Company|Titan]] on [[precision engineering]], and other companies like [[Tata Technologies]] and [[Tata Consultancy Services]] will bring on board their expertise in engineering and programme management. The Group has also had the experience of developing similar products like [[Tata Kestrel]] in collaboration with [[DRDO]].<ref name=":15" />

On 7 March 2016, [[Tata Motors]] announced a tripartite agreement with [[Bharat Forge]] and [[General Dynamics Land Systems]]. Under the agreement, a consortium of the three companies would be formed, led by Tata Motors, for the development of an FICV platform to be delivered to the Indian Army.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2016-03-07 |title=Tata Motors ties up with Bharat Forge, General Dynamics for Rs 50,000 crore infantry combat vehicle project |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/tata-motors-ties-up-with-bharat-forge-general-dynamics-for-rs-50000-crore-infantry-combat-vehicle-project/articleshow/51290132.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2025-04-11 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2016-03-07 |title=Tata Motors enters pact with Bharat Forge, General Dynamics to bid for Rs 60,000 crore defence order |url=https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/tata-motors-enters-pact-with-bharat-forge-general-dynamics-to-bid-for-rs-60000-crore-defence-order/article8324284.ece |access-date=2025-04-11 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |title=Tata Motors to lead consortium for Rs 50,000 crore infantry combat vehicle project - ET Auto |url=https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/tata-motors-to-lead-consortium-for-rs-50000-crore-infantry-combat-vehicle-project/51290613 |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=ETAuto.com |language=en}}</ref>

==== 2021–present ====
On 28 January 2023, the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) released a [[Request for Proposal]] (RfP) in search of industrial partners for the development of an Advanced Armoured Platform (AAP) with both [[Continuous track|tracked]] and wheeled ([[8×8]]) variants and a [[gross vehicle weight]] of 24 tonnes. Both the variants will be amohibious and equipped with compact integrated [[Powerpack (drivetrain)|power pack]] with [[automatic transmission]], modular ballistic and blast protection, [[CBRN defense|NBC detection and protection]] and [[fitted for but not with]] advanced [[Laser warning receiver|laser warning]], detection and counter-measure system, add-on armour and interface arrangement for [[Loitering munition|loiter munitions]] and [[mini UAV]]. Other equipments included advanced sensors including [[Thermal sight|thermal]] and optical sights. A crewless turret with a 30&nbsp;mm autocannon is also part of the weapons suite. The wheeled variant will have [[run-flat tire]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DRDO seeks industrial partners to develop advanced wheeled and tracked armoured vehicles |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/chandigarh/drdo-seeks-industrial-partners-to-develop-advanced-wheeled-and-tracked-armoured-vehicles-475889/ |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=The Tribune |language=en}}</ref>

On 2 April 2025, a metal cutting ceremony was held at the [[Pune]] facility of [[Tata Advanced Systems]] (TASL) and [[Bharat Forge#Kalyani Strategic Solutions Limited|Kalyani Strategic Solutions Limited]] (KSSL) along with DRDO for the Advanced Armoured Platforms (AAP)-Wheeled & Tracked platform.<ref name="X-240224">{{cite tweet |number=1907442573578219940 |user=DRDO_India |title=Demonstrating synergy for design, development and manufacturing of critical defence systems, the metal cutting... |date=2025-04-02 |access-date=2025-04-11}}</ref> The roll out of prototype is planned for October 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-04-03 |title=DRDO Kicks Off Production of Advanced Armoured Platforms |url=https://www.defencexp.com/drdo-kicks-off-production-of-advanced-armoured-platforms/ |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=DefenceXP |language=en-US}}</ref>

== See also ==

* [[List of modern armoured fighting vehicles|List of modern AFVs]]
* {{lwc|DRDO WhAP }}

=== Vehicles of comparable role, size and era ===

* {{lwc|K21}}
* {{lwc|BMP-2}}
* {{lwc|Mitsubishi Type 89 IFV}}
* {{lwc|BMP-3}}
* {{lwc|M2 Bradley}}
* {{lwc|ZBD-04|ZBD04}}
* {{lwc|Bionix AFV}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090824164402/http://www.drdo.com/pub/techfocus/2009/aug09.pdf DRDO Techfocus on Abhay IFV]
* [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/abhay.htm Abhay IFV] at GlobalSecurity.org
{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Abhay Ifv}}
[[Category:Infantry fighting vehicles of the post–Cold War period]]
[[Category:Infantry fighting vehicles of India]]
[[Category:Military vehicles of India]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War military equipment of India]]
[[Category:Tracked infantry fighting vehicles]]