MTU-72 bridge layers based on the Soviet T-72 tank will serve the Indian Armed Forces

The Indian enterprise Heavy Vehicles Factory produced T-72 tanks under license

The Indian Ministry of Defense signed a contract with Heavy Vehicles Factory for more than $180 million to purchase 47 MTU-72 tank bridge layers based on the Soviet T-72 tank. This was reported by Army Recognition.

The purchase of MTU-72 is aimed at increasing the operational efficiency of mechanized forces for deploying bridges during offensive and defensive operations. 
Army Recognition

Bridge layers support the movement of armored units across rivers and trenches.

MTU-72 have two configurations:

  • with a 20-meter bridge for the passage of equipment weighing up to 60 tons
  • with a 22-meter bridge for the passage of equipment weighing up to 70 tons
In 1978, India purchased 500 T-72 tanks from the USSR, including modifications T-72M and T-72M1. Heavy Vehicles Factory received a license to manufacture T-72. Over 15 years, the company produced 1,100 tanks under the name Ajeya. Production ceased in 1998.
Army Recognition

About MTU-72

The tank bridge layer was developed by the design bureau in Omsk. MTU-72 was produced from 1974 to 1989 at Uralvagonzavod.

MTU-72 specifications:

  • Hull length — 11,640 mm
  • Hull width — 3,640 mm
  • Armor — rolled, cast steel
  • Engine power — 840 hp
  • Highway speed — 60 km/h

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