New Engines for T-72 Tanks: Indian MoD Signs $248M Deal with Russian Rosoboronexport

India’s Ministry of Defence has signed a $248 million contract with Russia’s Rosoboronexport to procure 1,000-horsepower (HP) engines for upgrading the Indian Army's T-72 tanks.

The engines will be delivered in fully assembled, completely knocked down, and semi-knocked down forms. The agreement includes a Transfer of Technology (ToT) from Rosoboronexport to Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) at the Heavy Vehicles Factory in Avadi, Chennai, enabling local assembly and future licensed production to support the "Make in India" initiative.

The Indian Army operates about 2,400 T-72 tanks, which currently use 780 HP engines. The new 1,000 HP engines are expected to improve battlefield mobility and combat performance.

The Indian Army has inducted 1,300 T-90S 'Bhishma' tanks out of 1,657 being produced under license from Russia at the Heavy Vehicles Factory. It is also acquiring 118 Arjun Mark-1A tanks, ordered for INR 7,523 crore in September 2021, featuring 14 major and 57 minor upgrades for enhanced firepower, mobility, endurance, and protection. These will supplement the first 124 Arjun tanks inducted over a decade ago. Additionally, 354 indigenous light tanks for high-altitude warfare are being procured under Project Zorawar for around INR 17,500 crore in response to the ongoing military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh.