India plans to replace the standard 1000 hp engine of its T-90 tanks with a 1350 hp power plant. The 350 hp increase should boost the vehicle's specific power and improve its mobility, especially when operating in high-altitude areas. The decision to purchase new engines was approved by the Indian Defence Acquisition Council.

This refers to the Indian Army's T-90 tanks, including the T-90S Bhishma, an Indian version of the Russian main battle tank produced under license in India. The transition from 1000 to 1350 hp means an increase in power of approximately 35%, and this is specifically about modernizing the existing tank fleet, not creating a new combat vehicle.

The reason for the modernization is primarily related to mobility requirements. The Indian Ministry of Defence specifically points to the operation of T-90s in high-altitude terrain: increasing power will improve the power-to-weight ratio and allow the heavy vehicle to maintain higher dynamics in rarefied air conditions.

Indian BEML, which is already involved in tank power plants, may join the project. In March 2024, the company conducted the first tests of its own 1500 hp engine for main battle tanks, designed to operate at high altitudes, negative temperatures, and in desert conditions.

At the same time, the very need for a more powerful power plant shows that India views the modernization of the T-90 as a way to extend the capabilities of its existing fleet. The Russian platform is retained, and the most noticeable change should concern its power unit.