The U.S. Stryker wheeled Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) was evaluated by the Indian Army in eastern Ladakh between September–October 2024, at altitudes of 13,000–18,000 ft, including tests with the Javelin anti-tank missile system (armadainternational.com).
๐งฉ Key Findings from the Trials
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High-altitude performance: The double-V hull, intended for mine and IED protection, held up well in extreme mountain conditions (Indian Defence Research Wing).
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Engine limitations: The standard 350 hp Caterpillar C7 powerplant was considered underpowered in the rarefied air; a 450–750 hp upgrade was explored (Raksha Anirveda).
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Javelin ATGM issues: The missile system underperformed, prompting plans for a repeat demonstration (Indian Defence Research Wing).
๐ซ Final Outcome
In May 2025, after completing the high-altitude Ladakh trials, the Indian Army officially rejected the Stryker ICV. Instead, it endorsed the indigenous AAP Wheeled platform (an enhanced version of the WhAP) boasting higher engine power (>600 hp), modular armour, battlefield-tested armament including ATGMs, and over 80 % local content, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative (SSBCrack).
๐️ Timeline at a Glance
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Sep–Oct 2024 | Ladakh field trials of Stryker ICV commenced (Indian Defence Research Wing) |
| Feb 2025 | Official evaluation report completed, showings were forwarded (Indian Defence Research Wing) |
| May 5, 2025 | Indian Army rejects Stryker; opts for AAP Wheeled (SSBCrack) |
๐ก️ Why the Stryker Fell Short
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Engine power mismatch: 350 hp lacked punch in thin-air conditions; upgrades didn’t meet altitude demands (Raksha Anirveda).
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Subpar ATGM performance: The Javelin system couldn’t meet high-altitude reliability standards (Indian Defence Research Wing).
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Strategic alignment: The AAP Wheeled offered greater localization, superior altitude-suitable performance, and economic independence (SSBCrack).
✅ In Summary
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The Stryker ICV underwent rigorous testing in Ladakh in late 2024, but its limitations in engine power and missile system led to its rejection.
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The Indian Army has instead chosen to adopt an indigenous AAP Wheeled vehicle, signaling a shift towards self-reliance and altitude-optimized armored capability.
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