In response to reports about the death of tanks, the Indian Army, with a strength of 12 lakhs, is preparing for a significant upgrade of its current tanks and the induction of new-generation tanks for future battles.

Indian Army Plans To Replace 1,800 Aging Russian T-72 Tanks

In response to reports about the death of tanks, the Indian Army, with a strength of 12 lakhs, is preparing for a significant upgrade of its current tanks and the induction of new-generation tanks for future battles. Senior officers have stated that the extensive destruction of Russian tanks in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, primarily in the initial days, was more due to “poor tactics” than anything else. They noted that Russia deployed tanks without adequate logistics support and failed to provide sufficient backup from infantry, artillery, electronic warfare, and close-air support units.

“Combined-arms operations” were critical and missing in the conflict. Tanks remain essential for both offensive and defensive operations, offering mobility, firepower, and armored protection crucial for large-scale ground battles. The Army intends to issue a Request for Proposal this year for a mega project worth an estimated Rs 57,000 crores. The project aims to produce 1,770 Future Ready Combat Vehicles in India to replace the old Russian-origin T-72 tanks starting from 2030.

“The FRCVs will have niche technologies to include AI drone integration, active protection system, high degree of situational awareness and manned-unmanned teaming capability. It will be able to synergise and integrate with all elements of land and air in a network-centric environment”.

Army has so far inducted 1,200 T-90S ‘Bhishma’ tanks, and this year, it will introduce the first five of the 118 indigenous Arjun Mark-1A tanks. These tanks have undergone 14 major and 57 minor upgrades to enhance firepower, mobility, endurance, and protection. Moreover, the Army plans to induct 354 indigenous light tanks under Project Zorawar for around Rs 17,500 crores. These tanks are designed for high-altitude warfare and have a weight of less than 25 tonnes, superior firepower, and protection.

The Army is also implementing various upgrade plans. It has received approval from the defense ministry to induct 1000-horsepower engines for its T-72 fleet, replacing the existing 780 hp engines. The FRCVs will be inducted in three phases, with 590 units in the first phase. Each phase will introduce newer technologies to ensure the highest levels of survivability, lethality, and agility.