New Delhi: Taking a step towards indigenous production of future-ready armored vehicles, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO)DRDO) on Saturday unveiled advanced armored platforms (tracked and wheeled) in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, which will provide a huge boost to the armed forces as these vehicles can be used for infantry transportation, reconnaissance and combat support. Flagged off by DRDO Chairman Sameer V Kamath, the vehicles have been specially designed for deployment in diverse terrains such as Ladakh, desert and riverine areas.Vikram VT21 platform has been designed and developed by DRDO’s Vehicle Research Development Laboratory and manufactured in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Bharat Forge Limited (BFL). Many officials of TASL and BFL attended the inauguration ceremony.The platforms are amphibious in nature and have improved water obstacle-crossing capabilities, with hydro jets providing them operational flexibility. They can carry 8 to 10 fully equipped soldiers.A Defense Ministry statement said both the platforms are integrated with indigenously designed and developed 30-mm unmanned turret with advanced features to meet the mobility, firepower and protection requirements.The 30-mm uncrewed turret with the 7.62-mm PKT gun is configured to launch anti-tank guided missiles. The base design has configurable capabilities for multiple roles. Armored vehicles have 65% indigenous content, there are plans to increase this to 90%.