The Ministry of Defence has awarded a ₹586 crore contract to Pune-based Accurate Industrial Controls for Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for T-72 and T-90 tanks. This Make-II initiative focuses on local production of critical sub-systems to improve the operational efficiency and fuel economy of Indian Army armored formations across extreme terrains.
The Ministry of Defence has finalized a contract worth ₹586 crore with Pune-based Accurate Industrial Controls Private Ltd (AICPL). The agreement covers the supply of advanced Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) specifically designed to support the Indian Army’s fleet of T-72 and T-90 main battle tanks.
APUs serve as a secondary power source for armored vehicles, allowing critical systems to function without the main engine. With the APU active, a tank can keep its fire control systems, gun stabilization units, and firing circuits running while the primary engine is switched off. This capability is useful for reducing the tank’s thermal signature—a key tactical advantage for stealth during observation missions—and improving overall fuel efficiency.
The hardware is engineered to withstand diverse and challenging climatic conditions. These units are designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -50°C in high-altitude mountain zones to 45°C in arid desert regions. Each unit provides 10 to 12 kilowatts of power, ensuring that the mechanized units remain combat-ready and fully functional even when stationary for extended periods.
This procurement is part of the government’s Make-II initiative, which promotes industry-led research and development for defence equipment. By awarding this contract to a domestic provider, the government is looking to scale up the local production of specialized sub-systems. This move aligns with the larger objective of Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance, which aims to create a more robust and sustainable defence manufacturing ecosystem within India, reducing the country's historical dependence on imported critical components.
For the domestic defence manufacturing sector, this order highlights the government’s increasing focus on outsourcing complex sub-systems to indigenous private players. Investors and sector watchers often track such developments to understand the capacity of local firms to meet stringent military standards. The key monitorable for the long-term growth of this segment will be the industry's ability to maintain high quality, manage technical complexity, and adhere to delivery schedules as the government continues to shift more procurement toward local manufacturers.