Defence Ministry Signs ₹697 Crore Deal with ACE and JCB India for 1,868 Rough Terrain Forklifts

In a significant push toward modernising defence logistics, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed contracts worth ₹697.35 crore with Action Construction Equipment (ACE) Limited and JCB India Limited for the procurement of 1,868 Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks (RTFLTs). These vehicles will be distributed among the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy to enhance their operational efficiency in handling logistics and combat support tasks.

Enhancing Defence Logistics with RTFLTs

The Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks are designed to navigate challenging terrains and provide essential logistical support by reducing manual handling of heavy stores and equipment. These trucks will significantly improve the armed forces' ability to transport, store, and manage supplies efficiently in various operational environments, from forward bases to high-altitude areas.

The contract was formalised in the presence of Defence Secretary RK Singh, reflecting the government's commitment to strengthening India’s defence capabilities through indigenous production. Given its classification as a "Buy (Indian)" initiative, the project directly supports the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision by boosting domestic defence manufacturing capabilities.

Driving India's Defence Manufacturing Growth

This procurement is expected to generate direct and indirect employment opportunities by encouraging local manufacturing and supporting the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. The involvement of ACE Limited and JCB India—a leading global manufacturer with a strong presence in the Indian market—demonstrates the increasing role of private sector companies in defence production.

India has been aggressively pushing for self-reliance in defence manufacturing, introducing policy reforms and investment incentives to strengthen indigenous capabilities. The government has actively promoted collaborations between domestic and international defence firms, encouraging technology transfer and innovation in aerospace and military equipment production.

India’s Rising Defence Production & Exports

India’s commitment to becoming a global defence manufacturing hub has been reflected in its rapidly growing defence exports. In the financial year 2023-24, India's defence exports reached an all-time high of ₹21,083 crore (approximately $2.63 billion), marking a remarkable 32.5% growth compared to the previous year’s ₹15,920 crore. Over the past decade, defence exports have surged 31 times, showcasing India's growing footprint in the global arms industry.

Additionally, the total value of defence production in India saw a 17% rise, reaching ₹1,26,887 crore in the last fiscal year. With an expanding industrial base, increasing defence budgets, and greater collaboration with global firms, India is steadily positioning itself as a major player in defence manufacturing and supply chains.

Strengthening Self-Reliance in Defence

The acquisition of RTFLTs is a crucial step in modernising logistics and combat support infrastructure, ensuring India’s armed forces are well-equipped for rapid deployment and efficient material handling. The government's continued focus on self-reliance, supported by initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat,’ is expected to further strengthen India’s position as both a leading defence manufacturer and exporter.

With projects like this, India not only enhances its military logistics capabilities but also reinforces its long-term vision of achieving self-sufficiency in defence equipment production, paving the way for more advanced and indigenously developed solutions in the years ahead.