New Delhi: The Indian Ministry of Defence has finalized a $248 million agreement with Russia’s Rosoboronexport (RoE) for the procurement of 1,000 HP engines for the Indian Army’s T-72 tanks. The deal includes the supply of engines in fully formed, completely knocked down (CKD), and semi-knocked down (SKD) conditions.
The agreement also encompasses a Transfer of Technology (ToT) from RoE to Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) at the Heavy Vehicle Factory in Avadi, Chennai. This will enable the local integration and licensed production of these advanced engines, supporting India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative for the defense sector.
The T-72, currently the backbone of India’s tank fleet, is equipped with 780 HP engines. The new 1,000 HP engines will significantly enhance the mobility and offensive capabilities of the fleet.
The Ministry of Defence highlighted in a separate post on X (formerly Twitter) that this deal would boost the Indian Army’s capabilities on the battlefield and reinforce its efforts to strengthen domestic defense manufacturing.
India and Russia have a long-standing defense cooperation, including joint research, development, and production of advanced defense systems. Key bilateral projects include the supply of S-400 systems, T-90 tanks, Su-30 fighter jets, MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, as well as the licensed production of AK-203 rifles and BrahMos missiles. The cooperation extends to regular military exercises, including bilateral drills like the INDRA series and multilateral engagements like Vostok 2022.
