The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with. Rosoboronexport (RoE), Russian Federation worth $ 248 million.
MoD Signs $ 248 Million Deal for T-72 Tanks
The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with. Rosoboronexport (RoE), Russian Federation worth $ 248 million for procurement of 1000 HP Engines for T-72 Tanks in fully formed, completely knocked down and semi knocked down conditions. The deal also includes Transfer of Technology (ToT) from M/s RoE to M/s Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (Heavy Vehicle Factory), Avadi, Chennai, for integration and subsequent licensed production of engines under ToT to boost the “Make in India’ initiative in Defence Sector.
T-72 is the mainstay of tank fleet of the Indian Army which is at present fitted with 780 HP Engine. Equipping the existing fleet of T-72 Tanks with 1000 HP Engine will enhance the battlefield mobility and offensive capability of Indian Army. This modernization drive comes at a crucial time as India focuses on enhancing its defense preparedness amid evolving security threats. The induction of these high-powered engines will enable the Indian Army to maintain a technological edge over adversaries in future conflicts.
Push for Indigenous Manufacturing
The inclusion of technology transfer in the contract aligns with India’s long-term goal of reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening domestic defense manufacturing. The Heavy Vehicle Factory in Avadi will play a critical role in assembling and producing these engines locally, ensuring self-reliance in military hardware.
This contract is one of many defense deals India has signed in recent years to modernize its armed forces. With tensions along the northern borders and a rapidly changing security landscape, India is focusing on upgrading its military assets to ensure combat readiness. The upgraded T-72 tanks, with more powerful engines and increased mobility, will provide the Indian Army with a strategic advantage in armored warfare.
T-72 Tanks: A Symbol of Endurance and Innovation
The T-72, a Soviet-era tank, has undergone multiple upgrades to remain relevant in contemporary military operations. Though it was introduced in the 1970s, the T-72 continues to serve as a key component of India’s tank fleet. The latest iterations, such as the CI-Ajeya, feature modern enhancements, including Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA), GPS systems, and advanced fire detection technologies, which increase the tank’s battlefield effectiveness.
Chinese Threat
Against the backdrop of the tense stand-off with China in eastern Ladakh since 2020, a large number of T-72 tanks were quickly inducted into the region marked by tough terrain, besides the ones already deployed there, sources added. During operational deployment, the troops felt the tank lagging in power and speed at some locations.
T-72 Tank
The T-72 is a family of Soviet main battle tanks that entered production in 1973. The T-72 was a development based on the T-64 using thought and design of the previous Object 167M.
Mass : 41.0 tonnes
Crew 3 (commander, gunner, driver)
Fuel capacity: 1,200 L (320 U.S. gal; 260 imp gal)
Operational range : 500 km
Maximum speed: 60 km/h
