New Delhi, March 8

The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with. Rosoboronexport (RoE), Russian Federation worth $ 248 million for procurement of 1000 HP Engines for T-72 Tanks in fully formed, completely knocked down and semi knocked down conditions.

The deal also includes Transfer of Technology (ToT) from M/s RoE to M/s Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (Heavy Vehicle Factory), Avadi, Chennai, for integration and subsequent licensed production of engines under ToT to boost the "Make in India' initiative in Defence Sector.

T-72 is the mainstay of tank fleet of the Indian Army which is at present fitted with 780 HP Engine. Equipping the existing fleet of T-72 Tanks with 1000 HP Engine will enhance the battlefield mobility and offensive capability of Indian Army.

"The contract worth $248 million provides for the supply and organization of production in India of 1000-horsepower engines for T-72 tanks. this will allow the Indian Army to increase the power of Russian combat vehicles by almost 30 percent, improve their maneuverability and cross-country ability. The contract provides for the transfer of technologies for the production of these engines and is fully consistent with Make in India program."

The T-72, manufactured by Russian Uralvagonzavod, currently are powered by 780 horsepower engines. Together with T-90 tanks, T-72 are the backbone of Indian army's armoured formation.