The Indian Army and Indian Air Force have made a significant acquisition, placing an order for 2,978 units of the Force Gurkha. This development marks a milestone in the long-standing collaboration between Force Motors and the Indian Defence Forces, emphasizing the robustness, reliability, and mission-ready nature of the vehicles that have undergone extensive testing through rigorous field trials.
Force Motors carries a rich legacy of supplying military-grade vehicles, with the Gurkha Light Strike Vehicle (LSV) being particularly favored for its exceptional off-road capabilities, adaptability, and durability. The addition of the Force Gurkha SUV to this lineup further underscores the company’s engineering prowess, showcasing its ability to produce vehicles that thrive in extreme environments.
The Force Gurkha comes equipped with several key features that make it ideally suited for defense operations. It boasts a high ground clearance of 233 mm, enabling seamless navigation across rocky and uneven terrains. Additionally, its impressive water-wading capability of up to 700 mm allows it to traverse rivers and streams, a crucial advantage over other vehicles in its segment. An air intake snorkel ensures that engine performance is maintained even while maneuvering through water.
In terms of handling, the Gurkha features an advanced 4×4 setup with mechanically actuated differential locks on both axles, significantly enhancing traction and control in off-road conditions. An electronic shift-on-fly system facilitates smooth transitions between 2H, 4H, and 4L modes, offering superior maneuverability across a range of terrains.
The vehicle’s impressive approach angle of 39°, departure angle of 37°, and rampover angle of 28° contribute to its capability in tackling steep inclines and rough landscapes. With a gradeability of 35°, it ensures stability and ease of handling even on extreme slopes.
Under the hood, the Gurkha is powered by a robust 2.6-litre, Mercedes-derived turbocharged intercooled diesel engine, delivering 140 PS and 320 Nm of torque. This powerful engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, designed to complement the vehicle’s rugged characteristics.
Moreover, the Gurkha’s compact turning radius of 5.50 meters allows for easy maneuverability in tight operational environments, enhancing its suitability for diverse missions.
While the commercially available 3-door and 5-door Force Gurkha models were launched last year, starting at prices of ₹16.75 lakh and ₹18 lakh respectively, the units ordered by the Indian Armed Forces will feature additional customizations tailored to meet specific mission requirements.
Force Motors’ growing presence in the defense sector has been marked by its commitment to providing vehicles that are ready for demanding operational needs. The deployment of the Gurkha is expected to bolster the operational readiness of the Indian Army and Air Force across various challenging terrains, including snow, mud, sand, water, gravel, and mountainous regions.
This landmark order not only reinforces Force Motors’ status as a trusted partner in India’s defence ecosystem but also ensures that the armed forces are equipped with state-of-the-art mobility solutions essential for their critical missions.
