Russian Armour-Piercing Tank Rounds to be Made in India, Rostec Announces

In a significant development, Russia's state-owned Rostec corporation announced on Thursday that it had organized the production of armour-piercing rounds for Russian-made battle tanks in India. This move aligns with India's push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing and is part of broader strategic cooperation between the two nations.

The announcement comes ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Russia on July 8-9, where he is expected to hold talks with President Vladimir Putin. The timing of this announcement highlights the strengthening defense ties between India and Russia, two nations with a long history of military collaboration.

The specific rounds to be manufactured in India are the "Mango" projectiles. These are designed for use with T-72 and T-90 tanks, both of which form a crucial part of India's armored forces. The T-72 and T-90 tanks are renowned for their robustness and firepower, and the introduction of locally produced Mango rounds is expected to enhance their operational effectiveness significantly.

Rostec emphasized the capabilities of these rounds, stating, "The rounds allow you to hit modern tanks equipped with combined protection. Various modifications of these combat vehicles are in service with India." This statement underscores the compatibility of Mango projectiles with the existing Indian tank fleet and their potential to provide a critical edge in armored warfare.

In addition to the production of these specialized rounds, Rostec has plans to localize the production of gunpowder in India. This initiative aligns with the Indian government's "Make in India" campaign, which aims to increase domestic manufacturing of foreign goods and reduce dependency on imports. By localizing gunpowder production, India can ensure a steady supply of this essential component, further bolstering its defense manufacturing capabilities.

The historical context of Indo-Russian military cooperation is rich and deep-rooted. Moscow has been a key supplier of military equipment to India for decades, providing a wide array of weapons systems and platforms that have become integral to India's defense strategy. This latest collaboration on armour-piercing rounds is a continuation of this enduring partnership and is likely to pave the way for more such joint ventures in the future.

The decision to manufacture Mango projectiles in India is not just a commercial transaction but a strategic move that reflects the geopolitical landscape. As India continues to modernize its military, collaborations like these with established defense manufacturers such as Rostec are crucial. They not only bring advanced technology and expertise to India but also help in building a robust indigenous defense industrial base.

Moreover, this move is indicative of Russia's willingness to support India's defense modernization efforts amidst a complex global security environment. As both nations navigate their respective geopolitical challenges, their defense cooperation is poised to play a pivotal role in maintaining regional stability.