BEML guns for greater business from Army

The defence PSU, Bharat Earth Movers Limited which is participating in Defexpo-2006, now underway in New Delhi, plans to increase contribution to the armed forces and also revenues from the defence business.

It has implemented the Euro-2 emission norms in manufacture of BEML-Tatra 4X4, 6X6 and 8X8 vehicles which is the lifeline of the armed forces. It has been used by the Army for nearly two decades for troop and material movement.

The company will shortly take up the manufacture of light recovery vehicle in collaboration with Tatra Sipox with whom BEML has had a technical collaboration for many years now. To meet the requirements of the armed forces, BEML has been supplying variants of Tatra for integrated guided missile project.

Among other products, wagons for transporting battle tanks and milrail coaches for troop movement are supplied to the Army. Additionally, the company has been developing 60o65 ton capacity heavy-duty trailer for carrying higher payload tanks.

"BEML's alliance with its Polish partner Bumar shall see new projects taking shape, apart from ARVs, a major one being the possible induction of mines scattered laying equipment (Kroton) into the Army after trials on no-cost and no-commitment basis," says BEML.

Another strategic product is the armoured repair and recovery vehicle for use in the battlefield with provision for minor repairs on the field besides salvaging damaged vehicles.

The company has tied up with Micro Turbo, France for auxiliary standby power for ground support products and equipment. BEML is exploring suitable international partners for manufacture of light armoured recee vehicle, a reconnaissance vehicle on 4X4 drive and a 155mm turret for integration onto the MBT Arjun chassis.

BEML is showcasing several products at Defexpo-2006. These include Tatra 4x4, 8x8 trucks, PMS bridge, heavy recovery vehicle, armoured recovery vehicle, Field Artillery Tractor, Aircraft Towing Tractor, Dozer, Backhoe Loader and Engineering Mine Plough. Aggregates on display include BMP Transmission, Final Drive, Tatra Transmissions, Engine, Diesel Generator Set and Hydropneumatic Suspensions.

BEML crossed a turnover of Rs 1,856 crore in 2004-2005 with a profit before tax of Rs 272 crore and exports of Rs 59 crore. BEML hopes to achieve a turnover of Rs 2,200 crore in the present year with plans to touch Rs 5,000 crore by 2013-14 to coincide with the company's golden jubilee.