India signs $248 million deal with Russia to upgrade engines in T-72 tanks
The Indian Ministry of Defence has signed a $248 million contract with the Russian state-owned Rosoboronexport for the purchase of upgraded engines for T-72 tanks.
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The 1,000 horsepower engines will be supplied in fully assembled, fully disassembled and semi-assembled condition.
The contract also provides for the transfer of technology from the Russian defence equipment manufacturer Chennai Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (Heavy Vehicle Factory). This will allow for local integration and licensed engine production in India and is generally in line with the 'Make in India' strategy in the defence sector.
Indian T-72M1 tank. Illustration: Indian Ministry of Defence
The engine upgrade will increase the mobility and efficiency of India's T-72s, which are currently equipped with less powerful units (780 horsepower). The upgrade will also extend the service life of the vehicles. In addition, this decision will allow the army to avoid a complete replacement of the tank fleet.
Source: India Today
