The Indian Army is moving forward with an extensive modernization strategy aimed at extending the operational life of its T-72 “Ajeya” main battle tanks. These tanks have served as the backbone of India’s armored forces since the 1980s, playing a central role in the Army’s combat formations for decades. Although newer platforms like the T-90 Bhishma have gradually entered service, the large T-72 fleet still represents a significant portion of India’s armored strength. According to defence sources, the Army plans to retain nearly half of its T-72 inventory, estimated at roughly 2,400 tanks, while preparing for the introduction of the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV). Because the FRCV program is still under development and may take several years before full production begins, upgrading the current fleet is seen as a necessary step to maintain combat readiness. The modernization program includes multiple improvements aimed at enhancing performance, survivability, and mobility. One of the major initiatives involves replacing older engines with more powerful 1,000-horsepower engines supplied under a contract with Russia’s Rosoboronexport. These new engines will improve reliability and restore mobility to tanks that have been in service for decades. Another important upgrade is the installation of Thermal Imaging Fire Control Systems, which allow crews to detect and engage targets in low-visibility conditions and during night operations. Such systems significantly increase battlefield effectiveness and survivability. The Army is also expanding its maintenance infrastructure to support the large fleet. Facilities such as Vehicle Factory Jabalpur and Heavy Vehicles Factory Avadi are working together to overhaul tanks and restore them to near-new operational condition through a “zero-hour” refurbishment process. Through these upgrades and infrastructure improvements, the Indian Army aims to keep a substantial portion of its T-72 fleet operational until at least 2040 while gradually transitioning to the next generation of armored vehicles.
