The Indian Army is all set to give its tank regiments an overhaul in the coming years. The plan will include a purchase order for 2,200 new next-generation main battle tanks that will replace the aging fleet of T-72 tanks and some of the early T-90 models from Russia. The new program has been dubbed Program Ranjit, and under this initiative, India will develop a new Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) that will weigh approximately 50 tons. These will be designed to withstand the full range of modern warfare, including drone swarms, cyber threats, and other network-centric warfare techniques.
The RFP for this project could be issued by 2027. This is not only a tank replacement for India; rather, it is a step toward future-proofing the entire armoured capability. The Army seeks to develop a vehicle that can serve for the next 40 years and be able to undergo upgrades as needed.
The FRCV will possibly act as a mobile digital command centre, capable of controlling systems like drones, loitering munitions, and ground robots. The new tank will also be designed to minimize the impact of electronic warfare.
India’s Plan to Produce Close to 150–200 Tanks Annually
The final design of the tank will be finalized after 2030. Following this, mass production is planned to begin in 2034–35. The goal is to produce 150–200 tanks annually so that a total of 2,200 FRCVs can be inducted into the Army. During this time, the gap will be filled by upgrading existing Arjun tanks, ensuring no reduction in capability.
Mobile Command Centre
The Army’s new requirements clearly state that the FRCV will function as a Digital Nerve Centre. It will feature AI-based systems that, in collaboration with human crews, will continuously process data and information. Drones, loitering munitions, and ground robots can be operated from within the tank.
Fully Equipped for Network-Centric Warfare
This tank will be integrated with systems such as the Battlefield Management System (BMS) and Identification Friend or Foe (IFF). The new system will ensure that the tank remains connected to the command centre and data links, and stays secure even when cyberattacks attempt to jam electronics. The tank will continue to target nearby drones and loitering munitions when necessary.
360-Degree Cameras
The FRCV will have sensors and cameras that will give the combatant inside a full view of the surroundings. The tank will have clear visuals through dust, darkness, and fog in all weather conditions. The new tank will be fully equipped with C4I systems.
New Modular Design and 1500+ HP Engine
The Army wants to develop a new platform for the tank from the ground up so they can easily spawn a series of different models that add to warfare capabilities with ease. The 50-ton weight will be hauled by a 1500+ HP engine, and the tank will be capable of delivering a top speed of 70 km/h.
