NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a ₹1,560.52 crore contract with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), a unit of Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL), for the procurement of 47 T-72-based Bridge Laying Tanks (BLTs) for the Indian Army.
The contract was finalized in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on January 21, 2025. Senior officials from the MoD and HVF/AVNL participated in the signing ceremony, marking another milestone in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
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The BLT is a vital piece of equipment for the Indian Army’s Mechanised Forces, designed to provide quick bridging solutions during both offensive and defensive operations. These tanks ensure enhanced battlefield mobility by facilitating the movement of armoured vehicles and tanks across challenging terrain and obstacles, such as rivers and ravines.
This procurement falls under the “Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured)” category, emphasizing domestic defence production and innovation. The initiative aligns with the government’s push to promote self-reliance in defence technology under the Make-in-India program.
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The project is expected to significantly boost the economy by creating job opportunities and fostering technological advancements in the defence manufacturing sector. Additionally, it underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to modernizing its operational capabilities with homegrown solutions.
The introduction of these advanced Bridge Laying Tanks is set to strengthen the Indian Army’s combat readiness and contribute to strategic mobility during critical missions. It reflects India’s growing confidence in its defence manufacturing capabilities and the potential to emerge as a global defence exporter.
This development not only enhances the Indian Army’s operational efficiency but also solidifies the nation’s resolve to achieve self-reliance in defence production, furthering the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
