The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a $248 million contract with Russia’s Rosoboronexport (RoE) for the procurement of 1,000 HP engines for the Indian Army’s T-72 tanks. This agreement includes the supply of engines in fully assembled, completely knocked down (CKD), and semi-knocked down (SKD) conditions.
In addition to engine procurement, the deal also involves the Transfer of Technology (ToT) from Rosoboronexport to Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) at the Heavy Vehicle Factory in Avadi, Chennai. This move will facilitate the integration and licensed production of the engines within India, reinforcing the “Make in India” initiative in the defence sector.
Currently, the T-72 tanks in service are equipped with 780 HP engines. The upgrade to 1,000 HP engines will significantly enhance the battlefield mobility and offensive capabilities of the Indian Army, ensuring greater efficiency in combat operations.
This agreement is a major step towards modernizing India’s armored fleet while strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
