Article Posted on : - Aug 10, 2009

A File Photo of T-90 tank of the Indian Army

NEW DELHI (PTI): In a major step towards its induction into the Army, the Heavy Vehicles Factory will roll out the first indigenously manufactured Russian T-90 tank on August 24.

"The first T-90 tank, produced under license from Russia will roll out on August 24," Defence Ministry officials said here.

The localised licensed production of the Russian made tanks started in 2008 after India resolved the stalemate over the transfer of technology of the tanks.

India has signed a deal with Russia to supply 310 T-90s in 2001. Of these, 186 were assembled from kits at the Heavy Vehicles Factory at Avadi, near Chennai. Later on, an agreement was also signed for the licensed production of another 1,000 T-90s.

This, however, was delayed due to Russia's reluctance to transfer technology, prompting India to purchase another 300 tanks from the country last year.

In another significant development, the Indian Army will conduct competitive trials between the T-90 and MBT Arjun tanks will start in October this year.

"The Army will complete training its personnel on the MBT Arjun by September. So, we can start the trials by October," officials said.