Russia to Upgrade Indian Army’s T-72 Tanks with Powerful New Engines
India has taken a significant step toward modernizing its aging T-72 Ural main battle tanks by awarding a $248-million contract to Russia’s Rosoboronexport. The agreement will see the replacement of the existing 780-horsepower engines with more powerful 1,000-horsepower units, enhancing the performance and battlefield capabilities of these Soviet-era tanks.
The Indian Army currently operates around 2,500 T-72 tanks, many of which have been in service since the 1970s. The original engines, while reliable, are now considered outdated, limiting the operational efficiency of the fleet. By upgrading to higher-powered engines, the T-72s will see improved mobility, acceleration, and endurance, making them more effective in combat scenarios.
A key aspect of the deal is the transfer of technology from Rosoboronexport to India’s state-owned Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd. (AVNL). This initiative will enable licensed manufacturing of the new engines in India, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and strengthening the country’s defense production capabilities. The move aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance in military hardware and supports its long-term modernization plans.
The T-72 Ural: A Battle-Tested War Machine
The T-72, a backbone of the Indian Armoured Corps for decades, is a formidable combat vehicle with a length of 10 meters (33 feet) and a weight of 44.5 tonnes (98,106 pounds). It is armed with a 125mm smoothbore cannon, complemented by 7.62mm and 12.7mm machine guns. The tank’s armor combines steel and composite materials designed to withstand kinetic energy penetrators, offering enhanced battlefield protection.
In terms of mobility, the T-72 features a hydraulic-assisted transmission with seven forward gears, a fuel capacity of 1,200 liters, and a maximum speed of 60 km/h (37 mph). Its operational range extends up to 500 kilometers (311 miles), making it a versatile asset for ground warfare.
The latest engine upgrade is expected to significantly improve the tank’s combat readiness, allowing it to better navigate rugged terrains and respond more swiftly in high-intensity combat situations.
India’s Future Armored Modernization Plans
The engine replacement is part of a larger effort by India to modernize its armored forces. In 2023, the Indian government announced plans to locally produce 500 new combat vehicles to replace older T-72 tanks, signaling a shift toward next-generation military hardware. While the T-72 upgrade ensures continued effectiveness for the existing fleet, future procurement plans will likely focus on advanced platforms with enhanced firepower, survivability, and digital warfare capabilities.
By partnering with Russia for this upgrade, India is not only extending the operational life of its T-72 tanks but also reinforcing its strategic defense ties with Moscow. With improved mobility and performance, the modernized T-72s will remain a key part of India’s armored warfare strategy for years to come.
