May 20, 2013: The proposed ambitious upgrade of the Indian Army's entire fleet of infantry combat vehicles (ICVs) was fleshed out by Defence Minister A.K. Antony in Parliament recently. "Based on operational requirement, the entire ICV fleet of the Indian Army is being modernised to enhance their capability," Antony said. It has been revealed that armament and firepower capabilities are being upgraded with the latest generation fire control system, twin-missile launchers and Commander's thermal imaging panoramic sights, along with the latest generation anti-tank guided missiles and automatic grenade launchers.

"The ICV proposal for the Armament upgrade of BMP-2/2K to BMP-2M and new power pack for BMP-2/2K will cost an estimated Rs. 8,000 crore," Antony said. The process is currently on. The Army is already in the market for other types of vehicles, including light strike vehicles and is currently involved with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in the development of an unmanned tracked vehicle for troop rescue.