Today, the Indian Army has fortified its bridging capability through the introduction of the 46-meter Modular Bridge. Developed by DRDO and manufactured by Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the bridging system was officially handed over at a ceremony in the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi. The event was attended by General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff, along with senior dignitaries from the Indian Army, DRDO, and MoD.
Over the next four years, a total of 41 sets, valued at ₹2,585 Crores, will be progressively inducted. This mechanically launched single-span, fully decked 46-meter assault bridge facilitates the army in overcoming obstacles like canals and ditches effortlessly. It enhances the crucial bridging capability of Indian Army Engineers, designed for quick deployment and retrieval, aligning with the fast-paced nature of mechanized operations.
Each set of the Modular Bridge includes seven carrier vehicles based on 8×8 Heavy Mobility Vehicles and two launcher vehicles based on 10×10 Heavy Mobility Vehicles. The bridge can be employed over various types of obstacles, such as canals and ditches, with quick launching and retrieval capabilities. The equipment is highly mobile, versatile, rugged, and capable of keeping pace with wheeled and tracked mechanized vehicles.
The modular bridges will replace the manually launched Medium Girder Bridges (MGB) currently used in the Indian Army. The indigenously designed and manufactured Modular bridges offer advantages over the MGB, such as increased span, reduced construction time, and mechanical launching with retrieval capability.
The induction of the Modular Bridge is a significant step in enhancing the Indian Army’s bridging capabilities, showcasing India’s prowess in designing and developing advanced military equipment. It underscores the nation’s commitment to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and self-reliance in defence production. The acquisition of these bridges not only improves the Indian Army’s operational effectiveness but also demonstrates India’s growing prominence in defence technology and manufacturing.
