This report delves into the realm of Heavy Industries Taxila, tracing its historical evolution, significant contributions to national defense, and unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and social responsibility.

Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) stands as an emblem of pride and excellence for Pakistan in an era marked by the pursuit of self-reliance and innovation. Founded in the 1980s, HIT has journeyed from humble beginnings to become a manufacturing powerhouse, delivering a diverse range of defense products, including top-tier Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) and an extensive array of related military equipment. It has evolved into a military-industrial complex comprising eight specialized production units staffed by over 200 highly trained engineers and more than 5,000 skilled technicians. This report, following a visit to HIT by an Inter Services Public Relations team on September 5, 2023, sheds light on HIT's transformative journey, highlighting its mission to provide innovative solutions for AFVs and its expanding role, reaching beyond the defense forces to include Law Enforcement Agencies and friendly nations.
A Marvelous Array of Production Units
HIT's impressive arsenal of production units comprises:
▪     APC Manufacturing Factory
▪     Tank Manufacturing Factory
▪     Gun Manufacturing Factory
▪     Heavy Rebuild Factory (M Series)
▪     Heavy Rebuild Factory (T Series)
▪     DESCOM–Development, Engineering Support and Components Manufacture
▪     ASRF–Advanced System Rebuild Factory
▪ ARDIC–Advanced Research, Development and Information Center
Armored Personnel Carriers: The Mechanized Fortress
HIT's journey in the 1980s began with rebuilding U.S.-origin M-113 Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) and M-198 self-propelled guns. Since then, HIT has excelled in manufacturing, maintaining, and rebuilding these machines in various configurations. Notably, the indigenous APC Talha has been a significant milestone. APC Talha, an all-terrain amphibious infantry support vehicle with a 12.7mm machine gun, boasts ruggedness, agility, and crew comfort. It is configurable in four variants and serves as a troop carrier, command and control vehicle, air-defense platform, or anti-armor vehicle.

HIT is successfully rebuilding the T-85 IIAP and the Ukrainian T-80 UD tanks. Al-Zarrar, a cost-effective tank, has undergone substantial upgrades in various aspects.

Tanks-The King of the Battle
HIT has taken bold strides in tank manufacturing, producing state-of-the-art 125mm smooth-bore tank guns in its specialized factory. These guns, manufactured with precision and quality control, find compatibility with contemporary tanks worldwide. HIT's journey also involves rebuilding the T-59 Chinese origin tanks. Today, HIT is successfully rebuilding the T-85 IIAP and the Ukrainian T-80 UD tanks. Al-Zarrar, a cost-effective tank, has undergone substantial upgrades in various aspects.
Furthermore, the T-65 is upgraded with a 125mm smooth-bore main gun and a modern fire control system. Currently, its protection is also in the process of being enhanced. The T-85 lIAP is considered to be the punch of Pakistan Army. HIT has upgraded it in four different spheres, as elaborated below: 
HIT's Fourfold Tank Enhancement
▪  Power Upgrade. Featuring a boosted 730 hp engine for superior maneuverability in challenging terrains.
▪ Advanced Auto-loader. Incorporating a cutting-edge solid-state autoloader for streamlined operation.
▪  Enhanced Fire Control. Benefitting from an upgraded fire and gun control system (FGCS) for heightened precision.
▪  Added Protection. Bolstered with Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) for enhanced defensive capabilities.
Al Khalid and Beyond
The T-80UD, which is considered the king of the battlefield, has armored protection, which includes composite armor with an explosive reactive armor block. During the early 90s, HIT started designing the first main battle tank for the Pakistan Army and, in the year 2001, successfully handed over tanks for one regiment. The crown jewel of HIT's tank lineup is Al Khalid, which forms the backbone of Pakistan Army's Armored Corps, boasting a 125mm smooth-bore main gun, thermal imaging night vision sights, auto-loader, and hunter-killer capability. Its advanced variant, Al Khalid-1, offers improved accuracy, observation devices, automatic transmission, and radiation detection. HIT's forward-looking initiatives include the absorption of third-generation tank technologies, envisioning main battle tanks with enhanced fire control systems, superior protection, and night fighting capabilities. A cutting-edge design and integration center will drive these aspirations.

HIT's journey in the 1980s began with rebuilding U.S.-origin M-113 APCs and M-198 Self-Propelled Guns. Since then, HIT has excelled in manufacturing, maintaining, and rebuilding these machines in various configurations. Notably, the indigenous APC Talha has been a significant milestone. 

During the visit, the officials highlighted the prospects for HIT to integrate technologies for third-generation tanks, including improved fire and gun control systems, increased protection, and enhanced firepower with night combat and hunter-killer capabilities. They are currently in the process of constructing a state-of-the-art design and integration center aimed at aiding the indigenization of future technology and the development and integration of next-generation main battle tanks and related vehicles as part of capacity development for future tank technologies.
HIT's experts also showcased the high-tech advancements in the manufacturing of armored security vehicles, including the Protector/Mohafiz and Interceptor. HIT has also ventured into armoring commercial vehicles and produces Aahan, a customized guard post with adequate protection. Additionally, a range of bulletproof jackets, vests, and ballistic helmets are also manufactured.
Margalla Heavy Industries Ltd: Unlocking Commercial Potential for HIT and Pakistan
During the visit, the HIT officials also communicated that the parliament had given its resounding approval for the establishment of Margalla Heavy Industries Limited (HIL), a commercial subsidiary of HIT. This landmark decision heralds a new era of strategic growth and economic vitality. Margalla HIL is poised to leverage HIT's untapped commercial potential. 
The revenue generated by HIL will be strategically reinvested to bolster HIT's production units, enhancing their capacity and capabilities. In doing so, HIL not only reinforces HIT's commercial ability but also significantly contributes to the national economy and the growth of local industries. The fusion of HIT and HIL represents a promising pathway towards tremendous commercial success and self-reliance for Pakistan, empowering local sectors. HIT is recognized as a premium defense equipment manufacturer not only in Pakistan but also on the global stage. Friendly countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Bahrain, and Jordan are valued clients of this organization.
Facilitating Inclusive Education: HIT's Educational City and Industry-Academia Collaboration
The Educational City, which includes an engineering university, medical college, dental college, as well as Primary and Secondary Schools, stands as a testament to HIT's vision. It was evident that their holistic approach aims to provide accessible and quality education for all.