Question : MBT OF INDIA



(a) whether the production of Arjun has been stalled;

(b) if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether the Government are going to change the MBT of India;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the status of T-90 Tank with respect of MBT?

Answer given by the minister

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI GEORGE FERNANDES)

(a) No, Sir.

(b) Does not arise.

(c) to (e): With the induction of 124 fully formed imported tanks and production of 186 tanks through Semi Knocked Down (SKD) and Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits, followed by indigenous production of 1000 tanks, T-90 is expected to be the Main Battle Tank (MBT) of the Army till the end of the XII Plan. An indent has also been placed for 124 MBT Arjun tanks for raising one regiment each during the X & XI Plan periods.