The Ministry of Defence (MoD) recently made headlines when it placed an order with the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) in Chennai. The order was for the supply of 118 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) Arjun Mk-1A for the Indian Army. This latest development is seen to be a significant boost to the country’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, particularly in the defence sector and is a significant step towards achieving the goal of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
About the Arjun Mk-1A Main Battle Tank
The state-of-the-art MBT Mk-1A is a newly designed variant of the Arjun Tank. Its purpose is to enhance fire power, mobility, and survivability on the battlefield. This project, which initiated by the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1972, has resulted in a tank infused with 72 new features. Compared to the Mk-1 variant, this tank boasts more indigenous content, ensuring effortless mobility in all terrains, and precise target engagement during both day and night. As an indigenous MBT, it stands at par with any global contemporary in its class.
Developed by Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment
The MBT Mk-1A is a product of the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), collaborating with other laboratories of the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO). This team effort has resulted in a battle machine that is a testament to India’s rising technological prowess in the field of defence.
Significance of the Order
The order, priced at Rs 7,523 crore, serves as a powerful endorsement of the ‘Make in India’ initiative within the defence sector. It is seen as a significant step towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, or self-reliant India. By placing such a large order with a domestic manufacturer, the Ministry of Defence is boosting the domestic defence manufacturing sector, creating jobs, and reducing dependency on foreign imports.
The Evolution from Mk1 to Mk1A and MkII
The development of the Arjun tank has seen various iterations over the years. The Arjun Mk1 was followed by improved variants – the Mk1A and MkII. The Arjun Mk1A, which features enhanced firepower and transmission systems, completed its final integration tests in 2019 and was cleared for production.
On the other hand, the Arjun MkII variant is envisioned as a light-weight Futuristic Main Battle Tank (FMBT). This variant is expected to feature advanced systems like electro-optical sensors and high-powered lasers, making it one of the most technologically advanced tanks in the world.
Through continuous development and innovation, the Arjun tank series represents India’s prowess in armoured vehicle technology, showcasing the ability of its defence sector to produce world-class equipment. The recent order by the Ministry of Defence for the Mk-1A variant further underscores this achievement and lends further impetus to India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
