Source : Indian Defence Updates (IDU)
Indian Army to upgrade its fleet of 1,670 T-90 Tanks
The recent performance of Russian Main Battle Tanks in the Ukraine conflict has sparked concerns within India. India proudly fields one of the world’s largest fleets of Russian-designed T-90 and T-72 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), with nearly 4,000 of these armored giants in its arsenal. To address emerging vulnerabilities and bolster its combat capabilities, the Indian Army is embarking on a significant upgrade journey.
Enhancing Firepower and Survivability
In pursuit of this endeavor, the Indian Army has turned its focus on approximately 1,670 T-90 MBTs currently in its inventory for a possible upgrade. The primary objectives of these upgrades are not only to enhance firepower but also to improve survivability while rectifying design flaws that recent conflicts have exposed, particularly in the face of Western-supplied anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs).
A New Power Pack for Enhanced Mobility
A cornerstone of these upgrades revolves around the replacement of the existing V-92S2 engine, which delivers 1,000 horsepower, with a cutting-edge power pack designed to provide nearly 1,500 horsepower. This substantial increase in engine power is expected to offer Indian T-90s superior battlefield mobility and agility.
Private Sector Collaboration: Driving Innovation
To realize these ambitious upgrades, the Indian defense establishment is forging partnerships with private sector companies, with a particular focus on those with backgrounds in the automobile industry. This strategic collaboration aims to develop not only a new power pack for the T-90s but also for India’s forthcoming Future Main Battle Tank (FMBT) program.
This decision to involve private sector entities underscores India’s commitment to leveraging the expertise and capabilities of its domestic industries to enhance its defense capabilities. The synergy between the public and private sectors is poised to yield cutting-edge technology and engineering solutions, benefiting not only the T-90 upgrades but also playing a pivotal role in the development of the nation’s next-generation FMBT.
Future Main Battle Tank (FMBT): A Vision for Tomorrow
The new powerpack, equipped with its robust 1,500 horsepower engine, plays a pivotal role in India’s ambitious Future Main Battle Tank (FMBT) program. This visionary initiative aims to craft a cutting-edge battle tank, meticulously tailored to meet the evolving requirements of the Indian Army. The FMBT project embodies India’s earnest aspiration to nurture homegrown defense technologies and diminish reliance on foreign imports.
In conclusion, India’s journey to upgrade its T-90 Main Battle Tanks represents a significant leap forward in enhancing its military capabilities and reducing vulnerabilities. With the private sector playing a crucial role in this endeavor, India is not only strengthening its existing arsenal but also laying the foundation for a technologically advanced future in defense.
