The agreement includes technology transfer for local production under the ‘Make in India’ initiative
India has signed a $248 million contract with Russia’s state-owned Rosoboronexport (RoE) to procure 1,000 horsepower (HP) engines for its T-72 tank fleet. The engines will be delivered in “fully formed, completely knocked down, and semi-knocked down” conditions to boost the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
The deal includes technology transfer for local production at the Heavy Vehicles Factory in Avadi, Chennai.
A defence ministry official confirmed that the agreement also involves technology transfer from Rosoboronexport to Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) at the Heavy Vehicles Factory in Avadi. This move will facilitate the integration and licensed production of the engines, supporting the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The Russian-origin T-72 tanks, which currently form the backbone of the Indian Army’s armored corps, are equipped with 780 HP engines. The new 1,000 HP engines will significantly enhance the tanks’ battlefield mobility and offensive capabilities.
The Indian Army operates a substantial armored fleet, including approximately 2,400 T-72 tanks and 1,300 T-90S ‘Bhishma’ tanks, which are being produced under license by the Heavy Vehicles Factory.
Indigenous tank programs are also strengthening India’s armored capabilities
In addition to Russian-origin tanks, the Army is inducting 118 Arjun Mark-1A tanks, ordered for ₹7,523 crore in September 2021. These upgraded tanks feature 14 major and 57 minor enhancements to improve firepower, mobility, and protection.
The Army is also preparing to induct 354 indigenous light tanks under Project Zorawar. These high-altitude warfare tanks, weighing under 25 tonnes, offer a high power-to-weight ratio and advanced firepower.
The ₹17,500 crore project was initiated in response to the ongoing military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, which has highlighted the need for agile, high-performance armored vehicles.
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