TIL Limited Announces Dedicated Defence Strategic Business Unit to Accelerate Indigenous Military Equipment Manufacturing

TIL, India's leading material handling and infrastructure equipment manufacturer, has announced the formation of a dedicated Strategic Business Unit (SBU) called 'TIL Defence' to consolidate its expanding defence portfolio and accelerate indigenous production of critical military systems. The decision, approved by the Company's Board of Directors, marks a strategic evolution in TIL's 80-year journey and represents the natural progression of the company's defence capabilities under Gainwell Group ownership since January 2024.

The new SBU will deepen and widen TIL's coverage of tri-services requirements across Land Systems, Air Systems, and Naval Systems, leveraging nearly four decades of specialised defence manufacturing expertise. Since 1987, TIL has been designing, engineering, and manufacturing bespoke strategic equipment to meet the evolving demands of India's defence establishment, establishing itself as a unique domestic supplier for several critical military systems with ₹ 2000 Crores worth of order booking prospects from domestic defence orders during the next 5 years.

The Board has approved an ambitious multi-year plan to expand TIL Defence's capabilities through the production of existing approved designs, strategic collaborations with India's defence establishment and various Defence PSUs for newer product development, modernisation of critical platforms with cutting-edge technologies, and targeted expansion for strategic defence deployments where TIL products have demonstrated proven performance. The objective extends beyond catering to India's growing defence needs and establishing TIL as a reliable supplier of India-made equipment for international markets seeking reliable, cost-effective military equipment solutions.

Speaking on the strategic decision, Alok Kumar Tripathi, President, TIL Limited, said, “TIL Defence consolidates nearly four decades of specialised defence manufacturing, from our AKASH Transporter cum Loader Vehicles serving the Air Force to the Pinaka Loader cum Replenishment Vehicles that form the critical logistics backbone for India's Multi Barrel Rocket System. Our equipment operates in the most demanding conditions - from -30°C to +55°C temperatures and altitudes up to 4,000 meters - with NATO Standard-qualified systems that demonstrate our engineering excellence. This dedicated SBU will accelerate our contribution to Atmanirbhar Bharat & Make in India initiatives by reducing import dependency and establishing India as a credible supplier of indigenous defence systems to regional markets.”

Pinaki Niyogy, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Technology Officer, TIL Limited and SBU Head for TIL Defence, added, “Beyond our core platforms like advanced ammunition and missile handling systems, heavy-duty recovery vehicles, and all-terrain mobile cranes, TIL Defence brings comprehensive lifecycle support through our aftermarket program that serves over 200 customers. Our multi-year expansion plan focuses on productionising already approved systems, collaborating with Defence PSUs for next-generation products, and leveraging our strategic partnerships to integrate cutting-edge technologies. This approach ensures we deliver not just equipment, but complete operational readiness solutions for India's tri-services while creating high-skilled manufacturing employment and developing export capabilities.”

The timing of this strategic initiative coincides with TIL's remarkable financial transformation, having achieved ₹343.1 crores in FY25 revenue, representing 398% year-on-year growth and returning to profitability after six years, providing a strong foundation for increased defence sector investments.

The company's active fleet of 3,000+ machines across India, comprehensive aftermarket support network serving over 200 customers, and strategic partnerships with international technology leaders create a unique ecosystem that combines indigenous engineering capabilities with global best practices. This positions TIL Defence to address the full spectrum of defence requirements from design and development through manufacturing, delivery, and lifecycle support, ensuring operational readiness and mission success for India's armed forces.

Established in 1944, TIL Limited is a leading Indian manufacturer of material handling and infrastructure equipment with headquarters in Kolkata and pan-India presence. The company operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Eastern India and serves diverse industries including material handling, construction, mining, ports, railways, power, and defence. With global strategic alliances including Manitowoc Company Inc. of USA and Hyster® (part of Hyster-Yale Group Inc.), TIL combines eight decades of engineering excellence with international technology partnerships. Following its acquisition by Gainwell Group in January 2024, TIL has achieved remarkable financial transformation while strengthening its commitment to supporting India's infrastructure development and defence preparedness objectives. The company maintains ISO 9001:2015 certification and has been an integral partner in India's growth story, serving as a trusted supplier to the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy.