Vice Admiral Raman Puri (Retd) has criticized the Indian Army for not procuring the indigenously developed DRDO-Tata Wheeled Armoured Personnel Carrier (WHAP), despite its successful testing in high-altitude conditions and proven capabilities against foreign alternatives like the Stryker. He argues that this reluctance undermines India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, perpetuates dependence on foreign suppliers, and hampers the modernization of the Army’s aging fleet. The WhAP’s adaptability and real-world success in operations highlight its potential, yet the Army’s hesitance risks stifling innovation and further delays essential upgrades, emphasizing the need for prioritizing indigenous solutions in defense procurement.