India Signs $248 Million Deal with Russia for Advanced Battle Tank Engines

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.