On December 21, 2021, first batch of Indigenous Armoured Engineer Reconnaissance vehicles were inducted into the Indian Army.

Key Points

• These next-generation vehicles were inducted into the Corps of Engineers in the Army at an event in Pune.
• Indigenous Armoured Engineer Reconnaissance vehicle has been designed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• It was manufactured by Ordnance Factory Medak in association with Bharat Electronics Limited, Pune.
• The Indian Army has ordered 53 units of the AERV.
• These vehicles will be deployed with individual engineering formations, mainly on the Western front.

Significance of the vehicle

The vehicle is capable to carry out reconnaissance of water obstacles and boggy patches to execute engineering tasks with capabilities of carrying out reconnaissance & provide updates in real time to force commanders.  It will help in enhancing existing “engineer reconnaissance capabilities of Indian Army. Vehicles would be a major game-changer in support of mechanised operations in any of the future conflicts.

Armoured Engineer Reconnaissance vehicles (AERV)

The AERV has been developed by modifying the amphibious infantry fighting vehicle called BMP-II. The vehicle has been designed to meet tactical and combat requirements of military engineers who are carrying out terrestrial and under-water surveys in difficult terrains. It will primarily be used for the construction of assault bridges in desert, flat and riverine areas for offensive as well as defensive operations. The revolving town, turret, has been replaced with a laser range finder and other electronic equipment. It also comprises of ‘equipment measuring water currents & soil densities’ which are required for engineering columns for constructing bridges.