Recently, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) placed an order with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), Chennai for supply of 118 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) Arjun Mk-1A for the Indian Army.
Important points:
- The state–of-the-art MBT Mk-1A is a new variant of Arjun Tank designed to enhance fire power, mobility and survivability.
- The Arjun Main Battle Tank project was initiated by DRDO in 1972.
- Infused with 72 new features and more indigenous content from the Mk-1 variant, the tank would ensure effortless mobility in all terrains, besides precise target engagement during day and night.
- This indigenous MBT proves to be at par with any contemporary in its class across the globe.
- Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), along with other laboratories of Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).
- The order, worth Rs 7,523 crore, will provide further boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defence sector and is a big step towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
- The development of Arjun Mk1 was followed by improved variants – Mk1A and MkII.
- Arjun Mk1A, which features improved firepower and transmission systems, completed the final integration tests in 2019 and was cleared for production.
- The Arjun MkII variant is a light-weight Futuristic Main Battle Tank (FMBT) with electro-optical sensors and high-power lasers.
SOURCE: THE HINDU,THE ECONOMIC TIMES ,MINT