Defense News

India

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Ministry of Defence (MoD) are under scrutiny following their acquisition of Bharath Panther Crash Fire Tenders (CFTs) from a Noida-based MSME firm. Critics online are questioning the authenticity of the purchase, pointing out striking similarities between the Bharath Panther and the Rosenbauer Panther 6x6 CFT manufactured by Rosenbauer International, an Austrian company.

The controversy stems from the undeniable parallels between the two vehicles. Both the Bharath Panther and the Rosenbauer Panther share a 6x6 configuration and reportedly utilize the same Volvo Penta D-16 engine. This has led to concerns about whether the Bharath Panther is genuinely an indigenous product or merely a rebadged import.

The IAF contends that the contract with the Noida-based firm ensured swift delivery of the CFTs within 14 months, despite ongoing global supply chain disruptions. This rapid procurement process is seen as a success for Indian defence manufacturing.

However, critics online highlight a recurring issue within India's defence sector: the potential for rebranding foreign products as domestic creations. Such practices undermine the "Make in India" initiative and raise doubts about the transparency of procurement processes.

To address these concerns, the IAF and MoD could release detailed specifications of the Bharath Panther, particularly focusing on its engine and chassis origins. Additionally, fostering genuine technological innovation within the Indian defence industry is crucial to achieving greater self-reliance and avoiding future accusations of rebadging.