Indian Army Deploys Sherp ATVs for UN Peacekeeping in South Sudan Ensuring High-Mobility Operations

New Delhi, India – The Indian Army is set to deploy Sherp All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) for peacekeeping operations under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), enhancing mobility in one of the world’s most challenging operational environments. The move reinforces India’s commitment to global peacekeeping efforts while showcasing the country’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Announcing the deployment on X (formerly Twitter), the Army stated, "The Indian Army is set to deploy the indigenously developed Sherp All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) for peacekeeping operations to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, UNMISS, significantly enhancing mobility in extreme terrain."

Engineered for extreme adaptability and amphibious capabilities, Sherp ATVs are designed to navigate through swamps, flooded areas, rugged landscapes, and dense vegetation—terrain that has long posed significant challenges to peacekeeping forces in South Sudan.

"The Sherp ATVs are engineered for superior adaptability and unmatched amphibious capabilities, making them ideal for the challenging environments encountered in South Sudan. As a force-multiplying asset, the Sherp ATV will bolster rapid response capabilities, improve high-mobility logistics, and extend the operational reach of UN peacekeepers," the Army further stated.

Beyond its tactical advantages, the move highlights India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, underscoring the country’s ability to develop and deploy advanced defence technologies on a global stage.

"This deployment showcases India's commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat and demonstrates the nation's growing defence capabilities on a global stage, reinforcing tactical mobility and India's contribution to international peace and security," the Army added.

Sherp ATVs: Built for Extreme Conditions

Manufactured in India in collaboration with Ukraine’s Sherp company, these ATVs are built to traverse terrain where conventional vehicles falter. Their low ground pressure, massive inflatable tyres, and amphibious capabilities allow them to float on water, crawl over obstacles, and operate in conditions ranging from marshlands to deserts. With South Sudan’s flood-prone landscape and vast unpaved regions, the Sherp ATVs will prove invaluable in ensuring uninterrupted mobility for Indian peacekeepers.

India has long been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, with over 2,400 troops currently deployed in South Sudan under UNMISS. The addition of these ATVs will streamline logistics, enable faster troop movement, and improve operational effectiveness in high-risk areas.

UNMISS: India’s Role in Global Peacekeeping

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established on 8 July 2011, following the country’s independence from Sudan on 9 July 2011. Tasked with ensuring stability in a fragile post-conflict environment, UNMISS operates under the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1996 (2011).

Since December 2016, the mission has been led by Nicholas Haysom, a South African lawyer and diplomat. Haysom took over from David Shearer in January 2021. As of March 2021, UNMISS comprises 14,222 military personnel, 1,446 police officers, and 2,228 civilian workers, alongside a contingent of experts, staff officers, and volunteers.

India plays a crucial role in the mission, not just as a troop-contributing nation but also at a leadership level. The military deployment of UNMISS is currently commanded by Indian Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian, further solidifying India’s influence in global peacekeeping operations. Headquartered in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, the mission remains a vital force in maintaining stability in the region.

With the deployment of Sherp ATVs, India’s contribution to UNMISS will become even more pronounced, equipping its troops with cutting-edge mobility solutions to navigate one of the most volatile and unpredictable terrains in modern peacekeeping. The move reflects India's growing stature as a defence innovator while reaffirming its commitment to global peace and security.