New Delhi (Agencies) – The Indian Army has officially inducted Remote Controlled Weapon Stations (RCWS) developed by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), marking a significant advancement in its armored combat capabilities.
The RCWS was recently spotted on a T-72M1 Ajeya main battle tank during a visit by Lieutenant General Zubin A Minwalla, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Trishakti Corps, to an undisclosed forward post in Northern Sikkim to assess operational readiness.
The TASL RCWS is equipped with a 12.7 mm NSVT heavy machine gun capable of firing 700–800 rounds per minute. It integrates day and thermal cameras along with a laser rangefinder for precise targeting in all weather conditions. Offering an elevation range of -10° to 78° and continuous 360° azimuth traverse, the system can engage targets up to 4,000 meters away.
Designed for remote operation, the RCWS allows crew members to control it from inside the vehicle using a joystick and console, improving safety in high-threat environments. The two-axis stabilization mechanism ensures accuracy even while moving.
TASL has delivered around 100 units, which are being installed on T-72 MBTs and Infantry Protected Mobility Vehicles (IPMVs), particularly for high-altitude operations. A compact variant featuring a 7.62 mm medium machine gun is also available for light vehicles and unmanned ground platforms, with an effective range of 2 km.
This induction aligns with the Indian Army’s modernization drive, emphasizing indigenous defense technology and enhanced battlefield survivability. The RCWS significantly boosts firepower, crew protection, and operational efficiency, reinforcing India’s self-reliance and future-ready defense preparedness.