In a significant advancement for India’s indigenous defense capabilities, the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE) announced that its collaboratively developed 600 HP diesel engine with Ashok Leyland achieved a remarkable peak output of 675 HP during high-altitude trials in Leh, Ladakh. This surpasses its design specifications by 12.5% while maintaining critical safety margins, demonstrating its reliability in challenging environments. The engine’s success offers strategic advantages for the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) program, as it provides a cost-effective alternative to imported engines, estimated to be 40-45% cheaper. This milestone enhances India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing and aligns with the “Make in India” initiative, ensuring future armored platforms are powered by indigenous technology.