New Delhi, Delhi
In a move aimed at further strengthening the operational capabilities of the Indian Army’s T-72 and T-90 tanks, the Ministry of Defence has signed an important agreement. The ministry has entered into a ₹586 crore contract with Accurate Industrial Controls Private Limited for the procurement of Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for these tanks.
The agreement was signed in New Delhi on September 21, 2026, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. According to the Ministry of Defence, the induction of this indigenous system will strengthen the operational readiness, reliability, and durability of the Indian Army’s mechanised units.
Power Supply Even When the Main Engine Is Switched Off
An Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) serves as an alternative source of electrical power in a tank. Even when the main engine is switched off, it can provide electricity to essential electrical and electronic systems.
The T-72 and T-90 tanks are equipped with critical systems such as fire-control systems, firing circuits, and gun-stabilisation systems. These systems require electrical power during operations. The APU will play an important role in meeting this requirement.
One of the key advantages of the system is that it can reduce the need to keep the main engine running continuously simply to operate essential electrical systems. This is expected to help keep the tanks operationally ready while improving their overall utility.
Boost to the Army’s Operational Capability
The Ministry of Defence said that the induction of indigenously developed APUs will strengthen the operational preparedness of the Indian Army’s mechanised units. The systems are also expected to improve the reliability and durability of the tanks.
The T-72 and T-90 tanks play an important role in the Indian Army’s armoured fleet. Therefore, the integration of modern auxiliary systems into these platforms is considered significant from the perspective of the Army’s long-term operational requirements.
Boost to Self-Reliant Defence Production
An important aspect of the agreement is its focus on indigenous technology. India has been consistently promoting the domestic development and production of defence equipment and systems. The use of indigenously developed APUs for tanks can therefore be seen as another step towards strengthening self-reliance in the defence sector.
The ₹586 crore deal is expected not only to enhance the technological capabilities of the Indian Army’s armoured fleet but also to expand the role of India’s domestic defence industry in developing and supplying critical military systems.
