India’s self-made Arjun Mk-1A tank is often in the news for its price. In 2021, the Defense Ministry ordered 118 Arjun Mk-1A tanks, the total cost of which was Rs 7,523 crore. That means the average price of a tank is around Rs 64 crore.
‘Arjun’ is cheaper than American and German tanks
This price seems very high, but you will understand if you compare. According to the Armed Forces, India’s main T-90 tank, which was manufactured on license from Russia, costs around Rs 36 to 40 crore per unit. That means almost half the price of Arjun tank. But compared to western tanks, Arjun looks cheap. Like Germany’s Leopard-2 is around Rs 54 crore, America’s Abrams is around Rs 84 crore and France’s Leclerc is also expensive.
The price of Arjun is high because it is being made in small numbers and new technology has been added to it. If there were larger orders, the price could have been reduced. Also, it is part of ‘Make in India’, in which more than 54% of the parts are Indian, which increases the self-reliance of the country.
72 new features in Arjun Mk-1A tank
Now if we talk about the features of Arjun Mk-1A, it is much better than the old Arjun Mk-1. 72 new features have been added to it, of which 14 are major upgrades…
- Its weight is about 68 tonnes, but the 1400 horsepower engine gives it the power to move easily in every type of terrain, be it desert or rough ground.
- The main gun is 120 mm rifled, which can aim accurately in any weather day or night.
- There is an advanced fire control system, which quickly catches and kills the enemy.
- There is ‘Kanchan’ armor for protection, which protects from shells and missiles.
- There is also night vision, laser warning system and explosive reactive armour.
- The capability to fire missiles will also be added.
Arjun Mk-1A is designed by DRDO and manufactured at Heavy Vehicle Factory, Avadi. This tank has been specially designed for the Indian Army. It has defeated the Russian T-90 many times in trials. It has proven to be superior in accurate shooting and maneuverability.
Has this tank ever fought in a war?
not yet. Arjun Mk-1 (old version) has been in the army since 2004, two regiments (about 124 tanks) are deployed in the desert of Rajasthan. But none were used in real war. It is still in training and preparations.
Arjun Mk-1A shows India’s growing strength. It is definitely expensive, but being desi it makes us stronger. Deliveries will increase in the coming years and prices may also decrease. This tank shows that India now not only buys but also makes it itself.