Force Motors has just landed a major contract from the Indian Defence Forces, confirming the supply of 2,978 units of the rugged Gurkha SUV. This isn’t just any order—these specially configured vehicles will cater to the operational needs of both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, proving once again that the Gurkha isn’t just built for the road, but for real action.
Order
This large order highlights a long-standing relationship between Force Motors and India’s armed forces. The new Gurkhas won’t be your average civilian rides. Instead, they’ll be custom-tailored to tackle military tasks—whether it’s navigating harsh terrain, patrolling sensitive borders, or aiding rescue operations during emergencies.
The fact that both the Army and Air Force are onboard with this order reflects the model’s trusted performance and robust build.
Versions
The current-gen Gurkha, launched last year, is available in three-door and five-door formats. For civilians, there’s just one fully loaded variant, making the buying decision easy but also clearly showcasing Force’s confidence in the SUV’s abilities.
The military-spec versions will likely have additional customisation for defence use—things like better communication equipment, cargo space adaptations, and possibly even tweaks for desert, forest, or snow terrain handling.
Engine
Under the hood, the Gurkha packs a 2.6-litre diesel engine that produces 138bhp and 320Nm of torque. This powertrain is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and, crucially, comes with a 4WD system as standard. That makes it ready for extreme off-road conditions, where ordinary SUVs would struggle.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the engine specs:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.6-litre Diesel |
| Power Output | 138 bhp |
| Torque | 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual |
| Drive Type | 4WD (Standard) |
Statement
Prasan Firodia, Managing Director of Force Motors, said it best: this order is not just business—it’s a continuation of trust. In his words, “We are honoured to continue our association with the Indian Defence Forces… Our vehicles are designed with a focus on quality, reliability, ruggedness, and performance.”
This is a proud moment for an Indian automaker, showing that homegrown engineering can stand up to the extreme demands of military deployment.
Perspective
While many SUVs on the market boast about off-road capabilities, the Gurkha actually lives up to it. It’s not just about crawling over rocks or splashing through puddles on a weekend getaway—it’s about serving those who protect the nation.
For Force Motors, this is a milestone that reinforces their niche in building tough, purpose-built vehicles. And for the Defence Forces, it’s a dependable tool that meets the demands of real-world operations.
FAQs
How many Gurkhas were ordered?
2,978 units were ordered by Defence Forces.
Which forces will receive the Gurkha?
Indian Army and Indian Air Force.
Is the Gurkha 4WD?
Yes, 4WD comes as standard.
What engine does the Gurkha use?
A 2.6-litre diesel producing 138bhp.
Are civilian versions available?
Yes, in a single fully-loaded variant.
