In News:

India has signed a $248 million contract with Russia’s Rosoboronexport for the procurement of 1,000 horsepower (HP) engines to upgrade its fleet of T-72 main battle tanks (MBTs). This marks a significant step in enhancing the Indian Army's offensive and mobility capabilities.

Key Features of the Deal

• Engines to replace existing 780 HP ones in T-72 tanks.
• Delivered in fully formed, completely knocked down (CKD), and semi-knocked down (SKD) formats.
• Includes Transfer of Technology (ToT) to Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) at the Heavy Vehicles Factory, Avadi (Chennai).
• Boosts the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defence sector through local assembly and licensed production.

About T-72 Tanks

• Origin: Developed by the Soviet Union in the 1970s; designed by Uralvagonzavod.
• India’s Usage: Operates over 2,400 units, making it the backbone of India’s armored forces.
• Manufacturing in India: Locally produced and upgraded at the Heavy Vehicles Factory, Avadi.

Specifications

• Armament:
  • 125 mm smoothbore main gun
  • 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun
  • 12.7 mm anti-aircraft machine gun
• Mobility: With new 1,000 HP engines, improves maneuverability and combat speed.
• Protection: Equipped with composite and reactive armour.
• Night Capability: Advanced thermal imaging systems.
• Operational Range:
  • ~460 km on-road
  • ~300 km off-road (with auxiliary fuel)

Strategic Significance

• Combat Readiness: Enhances battlefield performance in high-altitude and desert environments like Ladakh.
• Cost Efficiency: Upgrading older platforms is more economical than procuring new MBTs.
• India-Russia Defence Ties: Reinforces long-standing military cooperation between the two countries.