India is preparing a major overhaul of its Soviet- and Russian-designed tank fleet, according to The Times of India. The program will focus on extending the service life of T-72 and T-90 main battle tanks, which form the backbone of the country’s armored forces.
Starting in April 2028, Indian defense facilities plan to modernize up to 80 tanks annually. The government has allocated $48.3 million for the project, with the work scheduled to take place at a defense plant in Jabalpur.
The initiative goes far beyond routine maintenance. Each vehicle will be completely dismantled, its components and mechanical systems inspected, and worn parts replaced before reassembly and testing. To prepare for the overhaul, Indian engineers are studying Soviet technical documentation, including blueprints for specialized equipment.
The project follows a $248 million agreement signed with Russia’s Rosoboronexport in March 2025. Under the contract, India will acquire 1,000-horsepower engines for its T-72 tanks. The deal also includes technology transfers to Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, enabling the Indian manufacturer to integrate the new power units and subsequently produce them under license.
T-72 and T-90 tanks remain central to India’s armored capabilities. The country’s ground forces operate up to 4,000 vehicles from these two families in various configurations, with most manufactured domestically under license.