On March 10, 2023, the Indian Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Rosoboronexport for the supply of 1,000-horsepower tank engines for T-72 tanks, along with major and minor assembly kits for local production in India. Valued at $248 million, the agreement includes the transfer of relevant technologies to Engine Factory Avadi (EFA), which will handle assembly and, eventually, licensed production under the “Make in India” initiative. While the specific engine model is not disclosed, it is likely to be the V92S2, a 12-cylinder, four-stroke multifuel engine produced by Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant – Uraltrak. Currently, the T-72 fleet of the Indian Armed Forces, consisting of 2,418 T-72M1 tanks largely assembled under license at HVF, is powered by a 780-horsepower engine. Upgrading to the 1,000-horsepower engine is projected to significantly enhance battlefield mobility and offensive capabilities. Additionally, plans to modernize about 50% of the T-72 fleet include engine replacement and upgrades to the fire control systems, following an information request published by the Indian Ministry of Defence in November 2023. This initiative, initially approved in September 2018 for approximately $322 million, underscores India’s strategy to strengthen its armored capabilities through indigenous production and modernization efforts.
