Indian Army Trains Tanzanian Troops on BMP-2 Infantry Combat Vehicle, Strengthens Defence Cooperation
The Indian Army has successfully concluded an intensive training program for the Tanzanian People’s Defence Force (TPDF), equipping them with the skills to operate the BMP-2 Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV). This rigorous 12-week training course, held at the Mechanised Infantry Centre & School (MIC&S) in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, spanned from July 1 to September 24, 2024. It marked a significant milestone in the growing defence collaboration between India and Tanzania, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the TPDF's Mechanised Infantry.
The BMP-2, known in India as the “Sarath,” is a highly versatile, amphibious infantry combat vehicle, widely recognized for its firepower, mobility, and protection. Designed to transport infantry troops into battle while providing direct fire support, the BMP-2 is equipped with a 30 mm 2A42 automatic cannon, a 7.62 mm PKT coaxial machine gun, and an AT-5 Spandrel anti-tank guided missile launcher. The vehicle's robust design includes a fully welded steel hull, which offers protection against small arms fire and shell splinters, while its amphibious capabilities allow it to traverse water obstacles with minimal preparation. Powered by a UTD-20 diesel engine, the BMP-2 can reach speeds of up to 65 km/h on land and 7 km/h in water, making it a formidable asset in various combat scenarios.
The training program for the TPDF soldiers was meticulously structured to cover every aspect of operating and maintaining the BMP-2. The Tanzanian troops were immersed in both theoretical and practical sessions, gaining comprehensive knowledge of the vehicle’s complex systems. The course included detailed lessons on the mechanical and electrical systems of the BMP-2, the nuances of its armament, and the protocols for performing field repairs. Additionally, soldiers were trained in advanced tactics for deploying the BMP-2 in various combat situations, such as assault operations, defensive maneuvers, and amphibious engagements.
The practical component of the training was particularly intense, involving hands-on exercises in simulated combat environments. Tanzanian troops were required to demonstrate their proficiency in handling the BMP-2, from performing rapid vehicle start-ups and executing swift tactical maneuvers to engaging targets with precision. The emphasis was on developing a deep understanding of the vehicle's capabilities and limitations, ensuring that the TPDF personnel could operate the BMP-2 effectively under different operational conditions.
This training program is part of a broader initiative by the Indian government to strengthen defence ties with African nations through capacity building and skill development. For Tanzania, this collaboration provides a significant boost to its military modernization efforts, enabling the TPDF to enhance its mechanized infantry capabilities and better safeguard its national interests.
The successful completion of this training program not only highlights the Indian Army’s expertise in operating and maintaining the BMP-2 but also underscores its commitment to supporting partner nations in building self-reliant and capable armed forces. As the Tanzanian soldiers return home, they carry with them valuable skills and experiences that will contribute to the operational effectiveness of the TPDF and bolster Tanzania's defence posture in the region.
In the broader context of India-Tanzania relations, this training initiative symbolizes a deepening strategic partnership, grounded in mutual respect and shared security interests. With both countries committed to expanding their defence cooperation, such joint training programs are likely to become a cornerstone of their bilateral relationship, promoting regional stability and enhancing the collective security of the African continent.
