Bolstering Mechanized Infantry: Indigenous Procurement of Auxiliary Power Units for Main Battle Tanks

The Ministry of Defence has taken a significant step toward enhancing the operational readiness of the Indian Army’s armored formations by signing a ₹586-crore contract with Accurate Industrial Controls Private Limited. This procurement, executed under the 'Make-II' category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), focuses on the indigenous development and supply of Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for the T-72 and T-90 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs).

APUs are critical components for modern armored warfare. They allow tanks to operate essential electronic systems—such as fire control, communication suites, and air conditioning—without running the main engine. This capability is vital for 'silent watch' operations, where a tank must remain stationary and stealthy while maintaining full combat readiness. By reducing the reliance on the main engine for auxiliary power, these units significantly extend the service life of the tank's engine, reduce fuel consumption, and lower the thermal signature of the vehicle, thereby enhancing survivability on the battlefield.

The decision to route this procurement through the 'Make-II' category underscores the government's commitment to 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in the defense sector. The 'Make-II' procedure is specifically designed to encourage indigenous participation, allowing for prototype development by private industry with minimal government funding, thereby fostering innovation and reducing dependence on foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This shift not only strengthens the domestic defense industrial base but also ensures that the Indian Army has a reliable, indigenous supply chain for critical maintenance and upgrades.

For the Indian Army, this integration is a force multiplier. As the T-72 and T-90 platforms continue to form the backbone of India's mechanized forces, ensuring their technological relevance through such upgrades is essential for maintaining a qualitative edge in diverse terrains, ranging from the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh to the plains of the western border.