SOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to the Indian Army’s armored capabilities, Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ), a key unit of Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), has embarked on a critical mission to overhaul the Army’s fleet of T-72 tanks. The first T-72 tank was delivered to VFJ’s facility in Jabalpur on March 21, 2025, marking the start of a comprehensive refurbishment program aimed at extending the operational life of these battle-proven main battle tanks (MBTs). This initiative underscores VFJ’s pivotal role in India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem and aligns with the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” vision of self-reliance in military modernization.
The T-72, a Soviet-designed MBT inducted into the Indian Army in the late 1970s, remains a cornerstone of India’s armored formations, with approximately 1,700 units in service alongside the more advanced T-90S Bhishma. Known for its reliability, mobility, and firepower, the T-72 has been a workhorse in India’s defense strategy, particularly along the western and northern borders. However, decades of operational use in diverse terrains, from the deserts of Rajasthan to the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, have necessitated extensive upgrades to maintain its combat effectiveness.
The overhauling program at VFJ involves a complete refurbishment of the T-72’s critical systems, including its 780-hp V-46-6 diesel engine, fire control systems, and armor protection. The process, expected to take 6-8 months per tank, will enhance the tank’s lethality, survivability, and operational readiness. Upgrades include advanced night vision devices, thermal imaging systems, and modernized electronics, ensuring compatibility with contemporary battlefield requirements. The overhauled T-72s will also receive improved ammunition handling systems and enhanced communication suites, enabling seamless integration with networked warfare environments.
Vehicle Factory Jabalpur, established in 1969, is a premier defense production unit with a proven track record in manufacturing and maintaining armored vehicles. Having produced over 1,000 T-72 engines and supported the assembly of T-90 tanks, VFJ possesses the technical expertise and infrastructure to execute this ambitious overhaul program. The factory’s dedicated overhaul facility, equipped with advanced diagnostics and precision engineering tools, is designed to handle large-scale refurbishment projects while adhering to stringent quality standards.
The delivery of the first T-72 tank to VFJ marks the beginning of a phased overhaul plan, with the factory aiming to refurbish 70-100 tanks annually, depending on funding and logistical support from the Ministry of Defence (MoD). The program is expected to cost ?1,500-2,000 crore over the next 5-7 years, covering approximately 1,000 T-72s. This effort complements the Indian Army’s broader modernization strategy, which includes the induction of new platforms like the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) while maximizing the utility of existing assets.
The T-72 overhaul comes at a critical juncture for the Indian Army, which faces evolving threats along its borders with Pakistan and China. The tank’s 125mm 2A46 smoothbore gun, capable of firing armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) and high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds, remains effective against most regional adversaries. However, its aging subsystems and limited protection against modern anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) have prompted the need for upgrades. The refurbished T-72s will incorporate explosive reactive armor (ERA) panels and active protection systems (APS) to counter emerging threats, ensuring they remain viable on the battlefield until at least 2035.
The program also addresses logistical challenges, such as the depletion of spare parts due to global supply chain disruptions, particularly for Soviet-era equipment. VFJ’s collaboration with domestic firms and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) aims to indigenize critical components, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. This aligns with the MoD’s push for 70% indigenization in defense manufacturing, fostering self-reliance and creating opportunities for India’s private sector.
The T-72 overhaul program is a testament to VFJ’s role in sustaining the Indian Army’s combat readiness while contributing to the local economy. The project will generate employment for skilled technicians, engineers, and support staff in Jabalpur, reinforcing the city’s status as a hub for defense production. VFJ’s partnership with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for sub-assemblies and components further strengthens India’s defense industrial base, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative.
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