Chennai-based Jeanuvs Technologies has collaborated with the Defence Research and Development Organisation's Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) to develop an indigenous autoloader system tailored for the Indian Army's Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) programme.

This milestone underscores India's push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The autoloader system represents a critical advancement in main battle tank technology. Traditional tank loading relies on human crew members, which limits firing rates and exposes personnel to risks during combat. An autoloader automates the process, enabling faster reload times—often reducing them to under 10 seconds per round—and enhancing crew safety by minimising exposure in the turret.

Jeanuvs, a rising player in India's defence innovation ecosystem, brings expertise in mechatronics and automation. Headquartered in Chennai, the firm has previously contributed to projects involving electro-optical systems and robotic mechanisms. Partnering with CVRDE, which specialises in armoured fighting vehicles like the Arjun tank series, allows for seamless integration of cutting-edge engineering with proven combat vehicle platforms.

Development of the system began amid the FRCV project's evolution. The FRCV aims to replace ageing T-72 tanks with a next-generation platform featuring superior mobility, protection, and firepower. Key requirements include a 120mm or larger smoothbore gun capable of firing advanced ammunition, including anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), with the autoloader forming the backbone of its fire control system.

Testing phases have reportedly validated the autoloader's reliability under extreme conditions. It incorporates modular design for quick maintenance, fault-tolerant electronics resistant to electromagnetic interference, and compatibility with future upgrades such as AI-driven targeting. Sources indicate successful trials at CVRDE's facilities in Avadi, near Chennai, simulating high-intensity battlefield scenarios.

This indigenous solution addresses long-standing import dependencies. Previously, Indian tanks like the T-90 Bhishma used Russian-derived autoloaders, vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and sanctions. By localising production, Jeanuvs and CVRDE reduce costs by an estimated 30-40 per cent while customising the system to Indian operational doctrines, including high-altitude warfare in Ladakh and desert engagements in Rajasthan.

The FRCV programme, approved with a projected acquisition cost exceeding ₹50,000 crore, envisions inducting 1,770 units over the next decade. The autoloader's integration positions Indian vendors ahead in the global tender process, potentially attracting private sector heavyweights like Tata Advanced Systems and Larsen & Toubro. It also aligns with the Army's restructuring into integrated battle groups emphasising rapid, lethal firepower.

Technologically, the system employs a bustle-type carousel magazine holding up to 24 rounds, with blow-out panels for enhanced survivability. Hydraulic and electric drives ensure precise handling of diverse munitions, from armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds to high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) projectiles. Digital interfaces link it to the tank's fire control computer for automated sequencing.

Jeanuvs' role extends beyond hardware. The company has invested in simulation software to model autoloader performance, accelerating iterative design. CVRDE provides metallurgical expertise for components enduring over 10,000 cycles without failure. This synergy exemplifies the success of the Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) model under Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020.

Strategic implications are profound. An operational FRCV with indigenous autoloader bolsters India's deterrence against armoured threats from China and Pakistan. It enhances interoperability with ongoing upgrades to the Arjun Mk-1A, which could adopt similar technology. Export potential also emerges, with interest from Southeast Asian and African nations seeking cost-effective tank solutions.

Challenges during development included vibration resistance and thermal management in India's diverse climates. Engineers overcame these through advanced composites and active cooling systems. Intellectual property rights remain fully Indian-owned, safeguarding against technology leakage.

Production scaling is underway at Jeanuvs' expanded Chennai facility, supported by DRDO funding and Army user trials scheduled for 2026. Initial batches could equip prototype FRCVs by 2028, paving the way for full-rate production. This project not only fortifies the Army's mechanised forces but also elevates Tamil Nadu as a defence manufacturing hub.

Government incentives, including positive indigenisation lists mandating local content above 60 per cent, have catalysed such partnerships. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visits to CVRDE highlighted the autoloader as a symbol of innovation, urging faster indigenisation across all platforms.

The Jeanuvs-DRDO autoloader marks a transformative step for FRCV, blending private ingenuity with public R&D to deliver a world-class capability. It reinforces India's ascent as a defence technology powerhouse.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)