New Delhi: Mahindra Automotive has finalised a significant deal worth ₹2,700 crore with the Indian Armed Forces to supply 1,986 units of the Scorpio Pik-Up, marking a substantial expansion of Mahindra vehicles in military service.
This latest contract increases Mahindra’s total contribution to the military fleet to over 4,000 vehicles, including various models such as the Scorpio Classic, Scorpio-N, and Bolero Pik-Up 4WD. The Indian Army will now have more than 7,000 Mahindra Scorpio SUVs in its fleet, demonstrating the military’s continued trust in the manufacturer’s vehicles for defence operations.
Earlier in the month, it was announced that 2,978 units of Force Gurkha will be inducted into the Indian Armed Forces fleet.
Mahindra has established a strong relationship with the Indian military over the years, consistently providing vehicles that meet the stringent requirements of armed forces operations. The company operates a specialised subsidiary called Mahindra Defence, which recently delivered the Armado ALSV to the Indian Army, notable for being the first vehicle of its kind designed, developed, and manufactured entirely in India. Prior to this latest contract, the Indian Army had already ordered 1,470 units of the Scorpio Classic under the 4×4 light utility vehicle – general services (LUV-GS) category, intended to replace the ageing Maruti Gypsy vehicles that were phased out when production ended in 2017. This established history reflects Mahindra’s capability to deliver vehicles that can withstand the demanding conditions of military use across diverse terrains.
The Scorpio Pik-Up vehicles designated for the Indian Armed Forces will undergo significant modifications to meet military specifications, distinguishing them from their civilian counterparts. These military variants will feature the distinctive Army Green colour scheme and will be equipped with essential military equipment such as 4WD transfer cases to enhance performance on challenging terrain. Other notable modifications likely include steel rims rather than alloy wheels, reinforced roll bars for rollover protection, and specialised towing hooks for military equipment. The vehicles are expected to utilise the robust 2.2-litre diesel engine that powers the Scorpio Classic, which generates 130 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, providing the necessary power for military operations. The cabins will also be specially configured to accommodate military equipment and communication systems required for operational effectiveness.
