Bharat Forge arm unveils next-generation Simha 4x4 armoured vehicle at Eurosatory 2026, targets global defence markets

Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd (KSSL), the defence subsidiary of Bharat Forge Ltd, has unveiled the Simha 4x4, a next-generation light armoured multi-purpose vehicle, at the Eurosatory 2026 defence exhibition in Paris, marking the latest addition to its expanding portfolio of indigenous military platforms.

Developed jointly with global aerospace and defence company Paramount, the Simha 4x4 is aimed at addressing the evolving mobility, protection and mission requirements of armed forces across India, Africa, South Asia and other international markets. The vehicle has been designed as a modular platform capable of supporting multiple operational roles, including reconnaissance, border security, troop transport, command-and-control missions and special operations.

The launch comes as defence manufacturers increasingly focus on adaptable platforms that can be customised for varied battlefield requirements while reducing lifecycle costs through common components and simplified maintenance.

Built for multi-role battlefield operations

According to KSSL and Paramount, the Simha 4x4 combines protection, tactical mobility and modularity in a single platform. Designed for both urban warfare and on-road and off-road reconnaissance missions, the vehicle is built on proven aggregates and can be upgraded or reconfigured to meet changing operational needs.

The companies said the vehicle was developed using advanced digital engineering platforms and underwent extensive validation and testing during its development cycle.

Amit Kalyani, Vice Chairman and Joint Managing Director of Bharat Forge, said the platform has been designed around NATO-qualified aggregates and can be rapidly industrialised in partner countries.

“Simha 4x4 reflects the depth of engineering and defence expertise we bring to the global stage. Europeanised by design and built around NATO-qualified aggregates, it is engineered for rapid industrialisation in partner nations across the world,” Kalyani said.

Focus on localisation and defence manufacturing partnerships

The unveiling also highlights the growing strategic partnership between KSSL and Paramount, which have been collaborating on advanced defence platforms for international markets.

Eric Ichikowitz, Senior Vice President of Paramount, said defence forces globally are seeking versatile platforms that can integrate emerging technologies while supporting local manufacturing ecosystems.

The companies noted that the Simha 4x4 has been developed with localisation in mind, enabling production in partner nations and supporting sovereign defence manufacturing objectives. Such an approach could help countries reduce dependence on imported military equipment while strengthening domestic industrial capabilities.

Expanding Bharat Forge's defence footprint

For Bharat Forge, the launch reinforces its ambitions to expand beyond traditional engineering and automotive components into high-value defence manufacturing. Through KSSL, the company has built capabilities across artillery systems, armoured vehicles, ammunition, small arms, marine platforms and unmanned systems, positioning itself as a key player in India's growing defence export ecosystem.

The Simha 4x4 adds another export-oriented platform to that portfolio at a time when global demand for modular and locally manufacturable defence systems continues to rise.