India’s T-90 ‘Bhisma’ Fleet: A Major Defence Asset and Catalyst for Russian Tank Manufacturing

India operates over 1,100 T-90S “Bhisma” main battle tanks (MBTs), establishing itself as the largest non-Russian operator of the T-90 platform. These Indian-specific variants form a critical component of the nation’s military capabilities and significantly contributed to the revitalisation of Russia’s tank manufacturing industry. A T-90 “Bhisma” was recently observed participating in a rehearsal for India’s annual Republic Day parade, scheduled for January 2025.

Operational Significance

The T-90S “Bhisma,” named after a legendary warrior from the Sanskrit epic poem Mahabharata, was specifically tailored for the Indian military. Prior to the acquisition deal with Moscow, three prototypes underwent a two-month series of tests in India’s northwestern Thar Desert. Indian Army Brigadier D. Singh reportedly described the Russian-made T-90S as “second only to nuclear weapons in terms of deterrence,” highlighting its perceived strategic importance.

Russian Industry Impact

The adoption of the T-90S by the Indian Army was described as a “lifesaver for Russian tank manufacturing.” Rosoboronexport, a subsidiary of the Russian state-owned military-industrial conglomerate Rostec, stated that its contract for T-90S tanks to India proved crucial for the Russian tank industry, which in 2001 had a domestic order for only three vehicles. This agreement also provided a major boost to Russia’s broader machine-building industry, which currently employs over three million people.

Domestic Production and Specifications

The T-90S “Bhisma” was initially manufactured in Russia, with India completing its first indigenously-produced tank in 2009. Beyond purchasing the MBTs, New Delhi also received advanced technologies from Rostec and its Uralvagonzavod Group subsidiary to facilitate domestic production. Since the early 2000s, India’s state-owned Ordnance Factory Board has assembled over 500 T-90S tanks, imported as kits, at its Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF). The HVF was further tasked in 2006 and 2007 to produce an additional 1,000 T-90S Bhisma MBTs, with 400 delivered by late 2019.

Future Prospects

Rostec has indicated New Delhi could leverage its experience with the T-90S for future cooperation on the next-generation T-90MS tank. Under India’s “Make in India” programme, Rosoboronexport has offered assistance in organising the production of the T-90MS, which features a new turret module, a more advanced fire control system, and enhanced protection. Further improvements have been made to the tank’s fighting compartment and command-and-control systems. This initiative aims to accelerate implementation by utilising existing facilities for T-90S/SK production and capitalising on many components and ammunition already mass-produced in India.