Wednesday, June 10, 2026
By Kamal Swami
Mahindra Unveils An ATV For Defence Forces Based On Thar
The domestic carmaker Mahindra and Mahindra has unveiled a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) developed especially for defence and security operations. The ATV is developed on the rugged Mahindra Thar Roxx platform, and has undergone extensive modification to make it suitable for military personnel doing their duties in challenging environment. The newly revealed ATV reflects Mahindra's growing focus on indigenous defence mobility solutions. Unlike its civilian counterpart, the military-spec vehicle prioritizes operational efficiency and survivability over comfort and luxury. The design has been tailored to support missions across rough terrain, remote locations, and combat zones.

To make the ATV suitable for battlefield, Mahindra has introduced various features that help in making it look different from the standard Thar Roxx. These include reinforced underbody protection, a front-mounted recovery winch, dedicated weapon mounting provisions, windshield protection, and specialized attachment points that can facilitate rapid deployment. The vehicle also features additional storage solutions such as jerrycan holders and spare wheel carriers to support extended missions.
Mahindra Chairman Anand Mahindra highlighted that every component of the ATV has been engineered with a specific operational purpose. The vehicle's high ground clearance, rugged construction, and off-road capabilities are intended to help armed forces navigate difficult landscapes while maintaining mission readiness. The unveiling further strengthens Mahindra's presence in India's defence mobility sector, where the company has been actively developing specialized vehicles for military and security applications. The ATV was recently showcased at defence-related events, drawing attention from military officials and industry observers alike.
With its combination of durability, adaptability, and tactical enhancements, the new Thar-based ATV represents another step toward strengthening India's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and supporting the operational needs of the country's armed forces.