Force Motors has just bagged a massive order from the Indian Defence Forces for 2,978 units of its rugged Gurkha SUV. This marks a significant boost not just for the company’s production lines but also for its reputation in the world of off-road and utility vehicles. The deal will see specially tailored Gurkha variants being deployed with both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
Order
This isn’t just a one-off shipment—this is a statement. The Indian Defence Forces have placed their trust in Force Motors to deliver a vehicle capable of tackling some of the toughest terrains and demanding conditions. Whether it’s the high-altitude regions patrolled by the Army or the air bases and logistics paths of the Air Force, the Gurkha will be at the frontlines, quite literally.
It’s not Force Motors’ first rodeo with military supply. This long-standing relationship with the defence sector highlights how the Gurkha has evolved from a civilian off-roader to a battle-ready workhorse that can be adapted for diverse missions.
Design
The Gurkha isn’t just another SUV. It’s built to go where others hesitate. The new generation, launched last year, came in both three-door and five-door formats, and it seems these variants have impressed the Defence Forces enough to make a bulk purchase. For civilian buyers, the Gurkha is available in one fully-loaded trim, but for the armed forces, expect modifications to suit patrol, transport, and even quick-response duties.
Force Motors is likely to make changes in seating configurations, add communication tools, and reinforce body structures to meet military-grade specs. In short, these aren’t your everyday SUVs—they’re made for action.
Performance
At the heart of the Gurkha sits a 2.6-litre diesel engine that cranks out 138bhp and 320Nm of torque. It’s not the most powerful on paper, but it’s got just the right mix of torque and efficiency for both road and trail duties. Paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 4WD system as standard, the Gurkha doesn’t mind getting its wheels dirty.
And while civilians might enjoy the Gurkha for weekend getaways or adventure drives, its real strength lies in utility—pulling loads, navigating unpaved paths, and staying reliable even under extreme conditions. That’s exactly why it’s become a reliable option for defence applications.
Reliability
Speaking on the occasion, Prasan Firodia, Managing Director of Force Motors, shared his thoughts: “We are honoured to continue our association with the Indian Defence Forces through this substantial order. Our vehicles are designed with a focus on quality, reliability, ruggedness, and performance, aligning perfectly with the operational needs of our defence personnel.”
His words sum it up—this order is more than just business. It’s about trust. The Indian Defence Forces are betting on Force Motors to deliver when it counts.
Impact
What does this mean for Force Motors? Well, apart from the business growth and production ramp-up, it’s a brand statement. Supplying to the armed forces puts Force Motors in a prestigious category. It boosts brand value and creates a ripple effect in the civilian market as well, where buyers often associate military-grade approval with durability and performance.
The Gurkha is steadily carving its place as a serious contender in the off-road and utility segment. This defence order just accelerates its journey.
FAQs
How many Gurkhas were ordered?
A total of 2,978 Gurkha SUVs were ordered.
Who placed the Gurkha order?
The Indian Defence Forces placed the order.
What engine powers the Gurkha?
A 2.6-litre diesel engine with 138bhp and 320Nm.
Is the Gurkha 4WD?
Yes, all Gurkha models come with 4WD as standard.
Will defence Gurkhas be modified?
Yes, they will be tailored for military use.
