Prayagraj: India’s defence mobility capabilities received a boost this week as Mahindra Group showcased a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) designed specifically for combat and high-risk operational environments. Built on the platform of the Thar Roxx SUV, the vehicle is tailored for the needs of the Indian armed forces, combining rugged mobility with mission-focused combat features.
The newly revealed ATV has been developed by Mahindra Defence and is expected to be offered to the Indian Army for evaluation and potential induction. The vehicle reflects a growing emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing and specialised tactical mobility solutions suited to diverse terrains—from deserts to high-altitude regions.
Designed with battlefield realities in mind, the ATV incorporates a stripped-down, utilitarian architecture that prioritises functionality over comfort. Unlike conventional SUVs, it replaces doors and roof structures with a reinforced roll cage, reducing weight while improving visibility and ease of movement for troops. The roll cage also doubles as a mounting structure for weapons, including a 360-degree turret capable of supporting a 7.62 mm machine gun.
One of the defining features of the vehicle is its integration of combat-ready elements such as a gun mount, blast protection, and underbody shielding. These enhancements are intended to improve survivability in hostile environments, including areas prone to ambushes or improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The ATV also includes a front-mounted winch, tow hooks, and rock sliders, enabling it to navigate extreme off-road conditions with relative ease.
The vehicle is powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine producing around 172 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 4×4 drivetrain—ensuring high mobility across rugged terrain. It rides on large all-terrain tyres and features increased ground clearance, making it suitable for challenging landscapes such as mountainous borders or forested zones.
Operational flexibility is another key highlight. The ATV is equipped with modular storage systems, including jerrycan holders for extended missions and MOLLE-compatible panels for carrying military gear. It also features reinforced hoist points, enabling airdrop deployment—an essential capability for rapid insertion of troops in remote or conflict zones.
Reports indicate the vehicle can accommodate multiple personnel, potentially up to seven, with a layout designed for quick ingress and egress. The minimalistic cabin underscores its purpose as a tactical transport rather than a conventional troop carrier, focusing on speed, adaptability, and mission readiness.
The ATV was recently showcased at defence events such as the North Tech Symposium 2026, where it drew attention for its aggressive design and battlefield-oriented modifications. Its unveiling comes at a time when the Indian Army is actively seeking high-mobility reconnaissance and tactical vehicles to enhance operational readiness along sensitive borders.
Mahindra has a long history of supplying specialised vehicles to Indian security forces, including the Rakshak and Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV), both designed for counter-insurgency and high-intensity combat scenarios. The new ATV builds on this legacy, offering a lighter, more agile platform for rapid deployment missions.
While the vehicle is still at the evaluation stage, its introduction signals a broader push toward indigenisation in defence manufacturing. If inducted, the ATV could complement existing fleet assets and provide Indian forces with a versatile platform for modern warfare environments where speed, adaptability, and survivability are critical.
With its combination of rugged engineering and combat-ready features, Mahindra’s latest ATV represents a significant step in India’s effort to develop homegrown solutions for evolving battlefield challenges.
