The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh News : Ordnance Factory gears up to meet Army demand

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Monday, Jul 20, 2009
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

Ordnance Factory gears up to meet Army demand

Production capacity to be enhanced; the most sought after Infantry Combat Vehicles to be modernised

Army has placed order for 200 ICVs every year
Mine protected vehicles also manufactured at Medak factory

— PHOTO: P. V. SIVAKUMAR

State-of-the-art: The heavy duty Mine Protected Vehicles manufactured on display at the Medak Ordnance Factory, which celebrated its silver jubilee on Sunday.

YEDDUMAILARAM: With the Army seeking more state-of-the-art Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) used in armoured warfare by mechanised infantry, the production capacity of the Medak Ordnance Factory is being enhanced.

This was disclosed to reporters here on Sunday by Saroj Vinayek, Director-General, Ordnance Factories, and Chairperson, Ordnance Factory Board, after inaugurating the factory’s silver jubilee celebrations here. She said the factory was annually producing 125 ICVs, also called as BMP-IIs. Their number would be enhanced as the Army sought 200 ICVs each year.

The capacities at other ordnance factories would also be increased, as the armed forces indicated their requirement for more weapons and ammunition.

Mean machine

According to a senior official of the factory, ICV is an amphibious vehicle, which could be carried during day and night. Its main weapon has a 30 mm calibre with a four km range. Powered by a 300 hp engine, it travels at a speed of 65 km/hour on normal terrain and seven km/ hour on water. It is equipped with filter to protect against nuclear, biological and chemical attack.

He said plans were afoot to modernise the ICV by modifying the NBC filter and installing digital communication system. The Medak factory has been designated as the nodal agency for modernisation of ICV. It also produces Mine Protected Vehicles used by paramilitary and police forces.

Earlier, inaugurating the celebrations, Ms. Vinayek urged the workforce and staff of the factory to meet the enhanced targets of the Army.

A.K. Aggarwal, member of the board, said the Army was happy with the quality of ICVs. He wanted the factory to maintain high standards and timely deliveries.

B.S. Bhatia, OFB member, R.S. Sodhi, factory’s general manager, spoke.

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