June 04, 2012 : After the Army expressed interest in similar equipment a few months ago, the Indian Air Force is looking to procure an undisclosed number of all terrain light strike vehicles (ATLSVs) to operate as "offensive weapon platforms in all terrain configurations to meet special operations requirements of a small team".

Like the Army, the IAF is principally looking at a high-mobility platform, with 3,500-kg unladen weight class category with a payload capacity of 900-1200 kg. Also, the vehicles the IAF is looking for will be for reconnaissance and patrol roles for all arms, need to provide space and cross mobility in all terrains (including high altitude and deserts) to small IAF special ops parties/teams (approximately six) for independent operation. The IAF prefers the vehicles to be right-hand drive, para-droppable, heliportable by current helicopters of the IAF and with adequate mounts for different armaments. While the IAF has not specified a number, it is likely to be looking for an initial order of at least 30 vehicles. Indian firms like Tata and Mahindra, and foreign firms like BAE Systems and General Dynamics are expected to show interest.