India to purchase 347 T-90 tanks from Russia

Moscow, Oct 18 (UNI) India will purchase 347 T-90 tanks from Russia and first consignment of 120 tanks will be delivered in two instalments within one year.

Both countries have agreed to the deal, however, the agreement will be signed as per Russia's convenience on the delivery of tanks, sources told UNI.

These new improved tanks with the facility of nightvision will be delivered to India after nine months of signing the agreement within a period of three years, sources added.

As per the agreement, the remaining 227 tanks will be delivered within two years in semi knocked-down condition.

Notably, earlier tanks had the problem of nightvision which was rectified through French cameras and Belarus' telescopes.

With this deal, Indian army would have more than 1600 T-90 tanks, sources said adding that the aim of India is to have as many as 3500 to 3800 tanks in the army with old T-72 tanks to be phased out.

In 2000, India had signed a deal to purchase 310 T-90 tanks from Russia. After that an agreement was made to assemble 1,000 T-90 tanks at Avadi in Tamil Nadu.

UNI