Indigenously developed next-gen AERV
GS Paper - 3 (Defence Technology)
The indigenously developed next-generation Armoured Engineer Reconnaissance Vehicle (AERV) was formally inducted into the Corps of Engineers of Indian Army in a ceremony presided over by Army Chief General MM Naravane in Pune.
What
- The AERV, which has been developed by modifying the amphibious infantry fighting vehicle BMP-II, has been designed to meet the tactical and combat requirements of military engineers.
- It carry out terrestrial and under-water surveys in hostile terrains, primarily for the construction of assault bridges in desert, flat and even riverine areas for both offensive and defensive operations.
- The Indian Army has ordered 53 units of the AERV, which will be deployed with the individual engineering formations, mainly on the Western front.
- The system has been designed by Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) two facilities — Vehicles Research Development Establishment (VRDE), Ahmednagar, and Research and Development Establishment, Pune.
- The AERV is being manufactured by the Ordnance Factory, Medak, and as many as 14 electronic and sensing equipment have been installed by the Bharat Electronics Limited, Pune.
- The system will enhance existing engineer reconnaissance capabilities of the Indian Army and would be a major game changer in support of mechanised operations in future conflicts.
