MoD fortifies Indian Army's mobility with procurement of minefield marking vehicles, 697 BOM Wagons

New Delhi: In a significant stride towards bolstering India's defence capabilities, the Ministry of Defence has sealed two pivotal contracts for the procurement of 697 Bogie Open Military (BOM) Wagons and 56 Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II. These contracts, totaling ₹802 crore, were signed with M/s Jupiter Wagons Limited and M/s BEML Ltd, respectively, under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. 

The contracts, signed on Thursday, include the procurement of 697 Bogie Open Military (BOM) Wagons and 56 units of Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II for the Indian Armed Forces. The procurement underscores the commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat by promoting indigenous manufacturing and encouraging private sector participation in defence production. The move aligns with the government's vision to make India self-reliant in defence manufacturing. Notably, the BOM Wagons are being procured at a cost of Rs 473 crores while the MMME Mark IIs for Rs 329 crores. 

Bogie Open Military (BOM) Wagons to mobilizing army units 

The Bogie Open Military (BOM) Wagons, conceptualized and designed by the Research Design and Standard Organization (RDSO), play a pivotal role in the mobilization of Indian Army units. Specifically crafted for the transportation of light vehicles, Artillery Guns, BMPs, and Engineering Equipment, these wagons facilitate the seamless movement of military assets from peacetime locations to operational areas. 

During conflicts, the BOM Wagons ensure the rapid and simultaneous induction of units and equipment into operational zones, enhancing the military's operational readiness. Furthermore, these wagons streamline the movement of units between stations and support military exercises during peacetime.  

Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II 

The procurement of 56 Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II is geared towards meeting the mandatory requirements outlined in the amended Protocol-II on the Convention in Certain Conventional Weapons, to which India is a signatory. The MMME is a specialized piece of equipment designed to operate cross country with a complete load of stores, facilitating the marking of minefields with minimal time and manpower.

Built on an in-service High Mobility Vehicle, the MMME Mark II incorporates advanced mechanical and electrical systems. This innovation is poised to significantly reduce the time required for minefield marking during military operations, thereby enhancing the operational capability of the Indian Army. 

These strategic procurements not only strengthen the Indian Army's logistical capabilities but also contribute to the larger goal of fostering indigenous manufacturing and self-reliance in the defence sector. The Ministry of Defence's commitment to these contracts reflects a dedicated approach to modernizing and fortifying India's defence infrastructure.