The Odisha Police have acquired two advanced bullet-proof armoured vehicles equipped with roof-mounted light machine guns (LMGs).
The move aims to strengthen counter-terrorism measures and enhance rapid response capabilities in high-risk areas.
One vehicle has been stationed in Bhubaneswar, the state’s administrative centre, while the other has been deployed in Puri ahead of the upcoming Rath Yatra. These vehicles, designed to withstand heavy artillery fire and explosives, provide heightened protection against potential threats.
Special Tactical Unit (STU) commandos, trained in urban warfare, operate these armoured vehicles, which can accommodate five to six personnel. Key security features include ballistic carpets, reinforced armour, multiple firing ports, and rear-mounted cameras for enhanced situational awareness.
According to Odisha Police officials, the armoured vehicles will play a critical role in patrolling, convoy protection, hostage situations, and emergency response operations. The addition of these cutting-edge vehicles reaffirms Odisha’s commitment to ensuring public safety and tackling security challenges effectively.