Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Southern Command, conducted an important visit to the 512 Army Base Workshop (ABW) in Pune, which stands as a flagship institution for the Indian Army. This facility plays an indispensable role in the rebuilding, restoration, and recapitalization of Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs), emphasizing its critical contribution to enhancing the operational readiness of the Army’s mechanized fleet.
During his inspection, Lt Gen Seth took the opportunity to review the Centre of Excellence for Rubber Technology situated within the Base Workshop. This specialized center is aimed at advancing rubber technology to enhance the maintenance and longevity of vital equipment utilized by the Indian Army, with a specific focus on ICVs and other mechanized platforms. The advancements in this sector are expected to ensure that the equipment remains functional and effective in various operational contexts.
The Army Commander also observed a demonstration of the Pilot Overhaul (OH) of the Armoured Recovery Vehicle (ARV) VT-72B. This vehicle serves a crucial role in battlefield recovery and support operations, showcasing the importance of maintaining and upgrading such assets for operational efficacy. Moreover, Lt Gen Seth was briefed on innovative projects and potential collaborations with the Indian defense industry, which aim to modernize processes and integrate cutting-edge technologies that promise to enhance operational efficiency.
In a show of appreciation, Lt Gen Seth commended the dedication, professionalism, and technical skills exhibited by all personnel and civil defense employees at the 512 ABW. He recognized their vital contributions to ensuring high-quality overhauls of ICVs and upholding the highest standards of operational excellence within the facility. His remarks underscored the significance of such workshops in maintaining the combat readiness of the Indian Army by guaranteeing that essential platforms are always prepared for mission execution.
The visit further highlighted the Southern Command’s renewed commitment to advancing self-reliance in defence technology. By leveraging indigenous capabilities and fostering innovation in military logistics and equipment maintenance, the initiative aligns well with the broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, reinforcing the strategic objective of achieving greater self-sufficiency in defence.
