The Indian Ministry of Defence has taken a significant step in enhancing the operational capabilities of its forces by awarding Mahindra a contract for the delivery of 1,986 Scorpio Pik-Up vehicles, valued at approximately 2.7 billion Indian rupees (around $31.5 million). This deal builds upon a previously established framework with the Mumbai-based automotive manufacturer, which encompasses more than 4,000 Scorpio platforms.
The contract is part of a broader project that aims to supply the Indian Army with an array of vehicle variants, including the Scorpio Pik-Up, Scorpio Classic, and the more modern Scorpio-N. In addition, the agreement includes the Bolero Pik-Up cargo vehicle, which is designed to offer enhanced payload capacity for logistical operations, reflecting the Army’s need for versatile transport solutions.
Beyond this substantial fleet of vehicles, Mahindra will also provide over 7,000 Scorpio SUVs under a separate contract aimed at further bolstering the Indian Army’s mobility and operational readiness.
The Scorpio Pik-Up being procured is a robust vehicle measuring 5 meters (16 feet) in length, with a ground clearance of 210 millimeters (8.2 inches) and a total weight of 1,755 kilograms (3,869 pounds). Powering the Pik-Up is a 2.2-liter diesel engine that produces 140 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle can accommodate a payload of approximately 1,100 kilograms (2,425 pounds) and has a towing capacity of up to 2,500 kilograms (5,512 pounds), making it suitable for various military applications. Additionally, it can comfortably seat up to five personnel and boasts a top speed of 160 kilometers (99 miles) per hour.
In a complementary initiative, New Delhi recently announced a separate contract with Force Motors for the supply of 2,978 Gurkha light strike vehicles. This 4×4 SUV platform features a 2.6-liter diesel engine that also delivers 140 horsepower, with a five-speed manual transmission enabling a top speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour. This diverse array of vehicles underscores the ongoing efforts of the Indian Defence Forces to modernize and enhance their operational capabilities.
