India has signed a $248 million deal with Russia’s Rosoboronexport to acquire advanced 1,000 horsepower (HP) engines for its T-72 battle tank fleet. This upgrade is intended to improve the Indian Army’s battlefield mobility and offensive capabilities. Furthermore, the agreement includes technology transfer to the Indian state-owned Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd, allowing for the licensed production of these engines and bolstering India’s defense manufacturing industry.
Key Highlights of the Deal
1. Agreement Details
- India has entered into a $248 million agreement with Russia’s Rosoboronexport.
- This deal focuses on upgrading the T-72 battle tank fleet of the Indian Army.
2. Upgradation of T-72 Tanks
- T-72 tanks, which were introduced in India during the 1970s, serve as the core of the Indian Army’s armored fleet.
- The Army currently has 2,500 T-72 tanks equipped with 780 HP engines.
- The upcoming 1,000 HP engines will replace the current ones, greatly enhancing maneuverability and combat effectiveness.
3. Transfer of Technology (ToT)
- Russia’s Rosoboronexport will transfer technology to India’s Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd (AVNL).
- AVNL will undertake licensed production of the new engines in India.
- This aligns with India’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives to boost domestic defense production.
4. India-Russia Defense Cooperation
- Russia has been India’s largest arms supplier for decades.
- The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has impacted Russia’s defense exports, leading India to explore Western defense suppliers.
- Despite this, Russia remains a key defense partner, particularly for tank and aircraft technology.
