India's Indigenous 600hp Engine by CVRDE and Ashok Leyland Prepares for Real-World Testing on the WhAP 8×8 Armoured Platform

India’s push for self-reliance in defence capabilities is taking a significant leap as the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), working with Ashok Leyland, has developed a 600 horsepower (hp) engine slated for testing on the WhAP 8×8 (Wheeled Armoured Platform). This indigenous engine has already cleared extensive lab testing and is now moving to real-world trials aboard the WhAP 8×8, a versatile armoured vehicle developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Motors. The upcoming field tests will be a crucial step, potentially advancing India’s military vehicle programs and reducing reliance on foreign powertrains.

The WhAP 8×8 Armoured Platform: Built for India's Diverse Terrain

The WhAP 8×8 is designed as an amphibious, multi-terrain vehicle suited to the needs of the Indian Army. It can navigate varied landscapes, from deserts and mountains to riverine environments, making it ideal for India’s diverse operational conditions. With robust armour and impressive mobility, the WhAP 8×8 is designed to safely transport troops and engage in combat, thanks to advanced onboard weaponry. Currently, the WhAP uses a 600hp Cummins engine, locally manufactured at Cummins’ Pune facility. This powerhouse enables the WhAP to tackle rugged terrain effectively, supporting combat and transport missions alike.

Yet, the CVRDE and Ashok Leyland engine, once approved, could present a major upgrade by offering an alternative that’s not only homegrown but also tailored to the specific requirements of the Indian Army. This engine is set to power the WhAP while reducing the dependency on foreign engines, aligning with India’s “Make in India” initiative in the defence sector. This move also aligns with broader military modernization programs such as the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV), where indigenous powertrain options are crucial for operational flexibility and strategic autonomy.

Key Specifications and Design of the New Engine

The new 600hp engine from CVRDE and Ashok Leyland is designed to meet demanding standards, with specifications aimed at maximizing performance under high-stress conditions typical of military operations. Known for its durability and optimized fuel efficiency, the engine is built with advanced cooling and filtration systems that enable it to function in both high-temperature zones and colder climates, which is crucial for an armoured platform that may be deployed anywhere within India’s diverse landscape. This rugged adaptability in harsh conditions and varied altitudes will provide the WhAP 8×8 with a stable, powerful drive regardless of environment.

In addition, the engine is built with a focus on reducing overall maintenance requirements and extending operational life—a priority for vehicles deployed in remote areas. The high torque output of the 600hp engine also ensures that the WhAP 8×8 can carry heavy payloads and still maintain the agility needed to maneuver in combat situations.

WhAP 8×8 in India’s FICV Program and Future Prospects

The development of the CVRDE-Ashok Leyland engine is tied closely to India’s Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) program, an ambitious project to replace the outdated BMP series armoured vehicles currently in service. The FICV is designed to be a state-of-the-art armoured transport capable of engaging in combat while providing enhanced protection and transport for infantry troops. With the new 600hp engine’s power, efficiency, and agility, the FICV platform could become a versatile, next-generation option for the Indian Army’s ground forces.

While initially aimed at the WhAP 8×8, the CVRDE-Ashok Leyland engine could serve as a baseline for additional armoured and utility vehicles across the Indian defence forces. Successful testing on the WhAP 8×8 could open doors for this engine to power future platforms, ensuring a standardization of indigenous powertrains in multiple vehicles. This will streamline maintenance, reduce logistical complexities, and, importantly, bring India closer to its goal of becoming self-reliant in defence production.

The Road Ahead for Indigenous Defence Powertrains

The deployment of the CVRDE-Ashok Leyland 600hp engine is more than just an addition to India’s military vehicle arsenal; it’s a statement of the country’s intent to push forward with indigenous technologies. As real-world testing unfolds, the WhAP 8×8’s performance with this new powertrain will offer valuable insights into how well India’s domestic capabilities match up to international standards.