Tata Motors has signed a contract for supply of 3192 units of the Tata Safari Storme 4×4 to the Indian Armed Forces, under a new category of vehicles-GS800 (General Service 800).

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MOD) had floated an RFP for vehicles with three basic criteria-minimum payload capacity of 800 kgs; hard roofs and air conditioning. Developed indigenously, the Tata Safari Storme 4×4 has completed a total trial duration of fifteen months in various terrains across the country, demonstrating supreme performance in the most demanding conditions with capabilities of coping with extreme on or off-road terrains.

Tata Motors' foray into Defence is progressing exactly as per the plan. First a replacement of Tatra by Tata High Mobility Vehicle 6×6 in the 10 Tonne class, and now a replacement of Maruti Gypsy by Tata Safari Storme in the 4×4 light vehicle category, reiterates Tata Motors' position as a leading supplier of defence mobility solutions to the Indian Armed Forces.

Commenting on the recently bagged order, Vernon Noronha, Vice President, Defence & Government Business, Tata Motors said, ''We are very proud to have received this prestigious order for over 3000 units of the Safari Storme under the newly formed GS800 category. Tata Motors has been a leading supplier of mobility solutions to the Indian Armed Forces and this order is a testimony to our partnership with the country's security forces. This variant of the Storme has been modified from the one available for civilians with an upgraded drivetrain and significantly modified suspension. The Safari Storme was conceived and designed keeping in mind the need for a rugged, comfortable and reliable vehicle, making it popular with law enforcement agencies. We will shortly commence delivery of these vehicles for the Army and Navy in a phased manner.''

Shares of the company gained Rs 5.15, or 1.14%, to settle at Rs 455.95. The total volume of shares traded was 522,459 at the BSE (Thursday).