In a move that could reshape India’s armoured capabilities, Russia has reportedly offered a customised version of its cutting-edge T-14 Armata main battle tank (MBT) for joint development and production under India’s Next Generation Main Battle Tank (NGMBT) initiative.
According to Ukrainian media, the proposal comes from Russian tank manufacturer Uralvagonzavod, highlighting a continued deepening of military-industrial cooperation between Moscow and New Delhi. The plan aligns closely with India’s “Make in India” initiative, especially the NGMBT program’s “Make-I” category, which supports indigenous prototyping with substantial government funding.
Armata Meets Indian Terrain
The T-14, known for its unmanned turret, digitally integrated systems, and crew-protected armoured capsule, is also fitted with advanced Active Protection Systems (APS) and a 125mm smoothbore cannon capable of firing laser-guided munitions.
With modular armour designed to NATO STANAG 4569 Level 5 standards, as well as NBC protection and automatic fire suppression, the tank is engineered for survival in high-intensity combat environments—including the harsh climatic conditions of India’s high-altitude borders and deserts.
What makes the proposal particularly notable is the level of localisation on offer. Russia has not agreed to export the T-14 in its current form, but it is open to a jointly designed and locally manufactured variant, potentially incorporating Indian-developed subsystems such as the DATRAN-1500HP diesel engine, replacing the original Russian 12N360 engine.
This could mirror previous joint successes like the T-90 Bhishma, produced domestically with over 80% indigenisation.
Technical Hurdles and Mutual Benefit
Despite its high-tech features, the T-14 has faced challenges—particularly in terms of engine reliability. Limited production numbers (reportedly around 20 units as of early 2024) have cast doubts over its large-scale deployment capability.
Through collaboration with India, Russia hopes to address these limitations by tapping into India’s engineering ecosystem and defence R&D bodies such as CVRDE, while offering India a gateway to cutting-edge tank design.
