Union Ministry of Defence signed a $248 million contract with Rosoboronexport (RoE), Russia, for the procurement of 1,000-horsepower engines for T-72 tanks of Indian Army. The agreement includes a Transfer of Technology (ToT) to Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (Heavy Vehicle Factory), Avadi, Chennai, for local production and integration, aligning with India’s Make in India initiative in the defence sector.
Key Highlights of T-72 Engine Upgrade Deal
Procurement Details:
- The engines will be supplied in fully formed, completely knocked down, and semi knocked down conditions.
- The T-72 tanks, currently fitted with 780 HP engines, will be upgraded to 1,000 HP engines to enhance battlefield mobility and offensive capability.
Transfer of Technology (ToT):
- RoE will transfer the technology to Heavy Vehicle Factory, Avadi, enabling indigenous production and reducing dependence on imports.
- This aligns with the Make in India policy in defence manufacturing.
Future Combat Vehicle (FRCV) Plan:
- The Indian Army is developing a roadmap to replace its aging T-72 tank fleet with Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) by 2030.
- These next-generation tanks will incorporate advanced weaponry, niche technology, and multi-role capabilities to address emerging threats in varied terrains.
Tanks in Indian Army
T-72 Fleet:
- The Army operates 2,400 Russian-origin T-72 tanks, forming the backbone of India’s armoured forces.
T-90S Bhishma:
- 1,300 out of 1,657 planned units of T-90S Bhishma have been inducted under a licensed production deal with Russia.
Arjun Mark-1A:
- 118 indigenous Arjun Mark-1A tanks were ordered for ₹7,523 crore in 2021, enhancing firepower, mobility, and protection.
- These add to the 124 Arjun tanks already in service.
Project Zorawar – Light Tanks for High-Altitude Warfare:
- The Army will induct 354 indigenous light tanks for ₹17,500 crore.
- These less than 25-tonne tanks with high power-to-weight ratio are designed for mountain warfare, particularly in Eastern Ladakh against China.
- along the 3,488-km Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Tank Classification in Indian Army:
- Light Tanks: Under Project Zorawar, suitable for high-altitude warfare.
- Medium Tanks: T-72 (45 tons), T-90 (48 tons) forming the bulk of Indian armoured forces.
- Heavy Tanks: Arjun MBT (60 tons), designed for superior firepower and endurance.
Strategic Importance of Tank Modernization
Post-2020 Chinese Standoff:
- The May 2020 border standoff with China in Eastern Ladakh prompted rapid deployment of T-72 and T-90 tanks by the Indian Army.
- The Chinese PLA has also deployed heavy armour and mechanized infantry