DRDO and Kalyani Group have revealed the second-generation Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8, featuring substantial upgrades in firepower, protection, and battlefield awareness. The latest version moves beyond its original role as an armored personnel carrier, evolving into a highly networked, multi-role infantry combat vehicle designed for greater operational flexibility and combat effectiveness.
A major enhancement is the integration of the combat-proven 2A42 30mm autocannon, the same weapon used on the BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle. Capable of firing between 200 and 550 rounds per minute, the dual-feed cannon can engage a variety of targets, including light armored vehicles, infantry positions, unmanned aerial systems, and low-flying helicopters. Its compatibility with both armor-piercing and high-explosive ammunition significantly boosts the platform’s direct-fire capabilities.
Supporting the main armament is a coaxial 7.62x54mm PKT machine gun, allowing crews to engage infantry and other soft targets without relying on the 30mm cannon. This improves ammunition efficiency and enhances the vehicle’s versatility during prolonged combat operations.
The upgraded WhAP also incorporates Safran’s PASEO sighting system for both the commander and gunner. Equipped with thermal imaging, daylight optics, and a laser rangefinder, the advanced fire-control suite enables target detection and engagement in all weather and lighting conditions. It also introduces hunter-killer functionality, allowing the commander to identify and assign new targets while the gunner remains focused on another engagement.
An additional layer of firepower is provided by a Remote Weapon Station armed with a 12.7mm NSVT heavy machine gun. Linked to the commander’s sighting system, the weapon can be operated from within the protected cabin and is effective against personnel, light vehicles, and certain aerial threats, making it particularly useful in urban and asymmetric warfare environments.
For anti-armor missions, the vehicle is fitted with a two-round launcher capable of firing MPATGM anti-tank guided missiles or potentially deploying loitering munitions. This significantly expands the platform’s engagement envelope, enabling it to defeat heavily armored targets and other high-value threats at extended ranges.
Survivability has been strengthened through the addition of a Saab laser warning system that detects hostile laser targeting activity. The system can alert the crew and activate defensive responses, improving protection against laser-guided weapons and precision-strike threats.
The WhAP maintains its amphibious capabilities through pump-jet propulsion units, which offer efficient and relatively quiet water mobility. An extendable bow section improves buoyancy, stability, and water management during amphibious operations by reducing the risk of flooding over the vehicle’s front hull.
Crew effectiveness has also been enhanced through advanced day/night vision systems for the driver, featuring thermal sensors and digital displays that support round-the-clock operations. Traditional optical systems and periscopes remain available as backups, ensuring operational continuity in the event of electronic system failures. Infantry carried within the vehicle can also engage threats through integrated firing ports and observation periscopes.
Additional design improvements include dedicated commander and gunner hatches for rapid entry, exit, and emergency evacuation. Together, these upgrades demonstrate a balanced focus on combat capability, operational flexibility, and crew survivability.
