Global push to replace Cold-War infantry combat vehicles gains steam with US XM30 prototypes and India's FICV rollout

The United States Army is preparing to evaluate its first XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle prototypes, delivered to Aberdeen Proving Ground as part of a broader replacement for the Bradley fleet. Simultaneously, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation has introduced Advanced Armoured Platforms that will compete for the Future Infantry Fighting Vehicle contract, targeting the replacement of BMP-2K Sarath units.

The Indian effort, a joint venture with Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge, offers tracked and wheeled variants equipped with high-power engines, amphibious hydro-jets, and a crewless turret mounting a 30mm cannon, machine gun and anti-tank missiles, meeting STANAG Level-5 protection. Competing Indian bids also include concepts from Mahindra Defence Systems, Larsen & Toubro and Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited.

Abroad, the UK’s Ajax, Russia’s Kurganets-25, Germany’s Puma and South Korea’s K21 illustrate a global trend toward modern IFVs. The XM30 distinguishes itself with hybrid-electric propulsion, a remotely operated turret, a 50mm XM913 cannon and integration of loitering munitions, supporting a crew of two plus up to six infantry who can dismount to fight. Initial orders call for eight prototypes per contractor and a modest acquisition of at least 108 vehicles through 2031, far fewer than the roughly 2,500 Bradleys currently in service.