Russia’s state arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, has confirmed the signing of a $248 million contract with India for engine supplies, aimed at upgrading India’s T-72 tanks.

On March 7, Rosoboronexport signed a contract with the Indian Defense Ministry to supply engines for replacing the engines in the T-72 tanks currently in service with the Indian Army," the agency stated.

According to the Indian Defense Ministry, the T-72 tank is the backbone of the country’s armored fleet, currently equipped with a 780 HP engine.

"The $248 million contract includes engine supplies and the establishment of local production for 1000 HP engines for the T-72 tanks. This will enable the Indian Army to increase the power capacity of the Russian armored vehicles by nearly 30%, enhancing their maneuverability and off-road performance. The contract also includes the transfer of production technologies for these engines and fully aligns with the Make in India program," stated Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev.

The T-72 tank was introduced into service with the Soviet Army in the summer of 1973. Designed by the tank design bureau of the Uralvagonzavod plant (now the Ural Design Office of Transport Engineering, part of the Rostec corporation’s Uralvagonzavod concern), the vehicle has undergone several upgrades. The T-72 is currently in service with the armed forces of approximately 50 countries.

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