When it comes to vehicles used by the Indian armed forces, the likes of the Maruti Gypsy and the Tata Safari Storme GS800 immediately come to mind. However, there is another significant vehicle manufactured by Mahindra that has been in active use for quite some time. This article delves into the Mahindra ALSV, exploring its features, capabilities, and what you need to know about this robust vehicle.
So what exactly does the term ALSV stand for?
The Armored Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV), an acronym for the term Armored Light Specialist vehicle, is a versatile and robust military vehicle designed for operations in challenging border areas. In India, the ALSV is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Line of Control (LOC) by deterring insurgent activities.
Designed and developed by Mahindra Defence Systems, the ALSV is not limited to specialized missions or patrolling duties. Its exceptional versatility enables it to be seamlessly integrated into quick response teams, allowing for rapid deployment and effective response to emerging threats. Additionally, the ALSV’s modular design allows for retrofitting and customization to suit the demands of full-scale conventional warfare, making it a valuable asset in a wide range of operational scenarios.
Specifications
The Mahindra ALSV – also called the Armado features a 3.2-litre diesel engine that belts out 215 BHP and 500 Nm of torque. All of this is channeled by a 4-speed heavy-duty torque converter gearbox supplied by General Motors.
Some features that are standard on this vehicle are
- Protection Level: CEN B7 STANAG Level II
- Multi-Layered Ballistic Glass
- 6 Cylinder Direct Injection Engine
- Lightweight GM Transmission
- Double Wishbone Axle
- Bilstein Heavy-Duty Suspension
- Air Filtration & Scavenging System
- Gun Hatch
- Run-flat System (As per Finabel 50km)
- Public Address System
- Tire Inflation System
- Clamshell Doors
In addition to all these features, the ALSV can also be optioned with additional features like
- Driver + Five Seating Option
- Surveillance Configuration
- In-Service GPS
- Detachable and Adjustable Modular Racks
- Automatic Grenade Launcher
- Electric Winch
- HF/VHF/UHF Radio
- Screen and Windows Mesh Protection
- Medium Machine Gun Mount
- Camouflage Net Storage
- Blast Mitigation Floor Mat
- Tactical Command & Control with Mapping
Orders and Operators
Mahindra, as of August 2024, holds an order book consisting of 1300 Armored Light Specialist Vehicles (ALSVs) intended for delivery to the Indian Army. Among these vehicles, 50 units equipped with 81mm mortars are scheduled for delivery by the end of the fourth quarter of 2024. Additionally, an undisclosed number of ALSVs are currently in service with United Nations peacekeeping forces, contributing to global peacekeeping efforts.
What makes the ALSV so special?
A number of reasons make the ALSV so special. The very fact that it can be deployed from helicopters and aircraft means that they can be put into action quickly without worrying too much about their transportation. Another capability is that these can be customized very easily to suit precise needs and the fact that they can support multiple types of weapons such as 50cal HMG, SPIKE ATGMs and Grenade launchers means that they can be used for all sorts of warfare.
India’s take on the ALSV has finally borne fruit after the dud called Mahindra Axe a few years ago. How will the vehicle fare in the longer run is to be seen though. Although what would also be interesting to see is whether Mahindra will develop a civilian version of this along the lines of this, just like how the Hummer came from the Humvees.