Aligning with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative to promote self-reliance in defence, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed contracts worth INR 697.35 crore with Action Construction Equipment Ltd (ACE) and JCB India Ltd for the procurement of 1,868 Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks (RTFLTs). ACE will deliver 1,121 RTFLTs along with attachments and accompanying accessories at a total value of INR 420 crores.

The contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary R K Singh. The RTFLTs will be manufactured under the Buy (Indian) category, strengthening India’s defence production ecosystem. The project is expected to generate direct and indirect employment by supporting MSMEs engaged in component manufacturing.

What are rough terrain fork lift trucks?

  • They are heavy-duty forklifts designed to operate outdoors on uneven surfaces, also known as all-terrain forklifts. 
  • Their large tyres, high ground clearance, and powerful engines, which allow them to navigate rugged terrain with ease.
  • The all- wheel drive provides traction on slippery surfaces and steep inclines
  • The large tires provide floatation and ground clearance
  • Powerful engines allow them to handle heavy loads and
  • Ability to withstand challenging environments due to Durable construction

The RTFLT is a mission-critical asset, designed to enhance combat readiness and logistical efficiency across the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy. By reducing manual handling of vast quantities of essential supplies, the RTFLT significantly improves the operational effectiveness of the Defence forces, thus strengthening the logistics and operational efficiency of armed forces.

In a separate development, the Defence Ministry inked INR 1,220.12 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru (BEL) for the procurement of 149 Software Defined Radios (SDRs) for the Indian Coast Guard under buy India category. These radios will enhance secure, high-speed data sharing, voice communication, and situational awareness for maritime security operations.

"This will strengthen the Indian Coast Guard's capability to fulfil its core responsibilities, including maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, fisheries protection, and marine environment protection. Additionally, these radios will enhance interoperability for joint operations with the Indian Navy," the ministry said.

Aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the contract will enhance the country's manufacturing capabilities for advanced military-grade communication systems, generating employment opportunities and fostering expertise development, it further mentioned.