BEML to add India’s Main Battle Tanks with Datran 1500hp Engines

BEML Limited,  an Indian defense equipment manufacturer, has signed a contract to design, develop, and supply 20 state-of-the-art Datran 1500hp engines for India’s Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). This significant development is set to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, particularly in armored warfare.

The Datran 1500hp engine, engineered to compete with some of the world’s top military propulsion systems, boasts superior power, advanced technology, and enhanced maneuverability.

These attributes are essential for modern MBTs operating in dynamic combat scenarios. Before full-scale production, the new engines will undergo rigorous testing on older Arjun prototypes.

In addition, the Datran engine is also earmarked for inclusion in the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program, underscoring its importance in India’s military modernization efforts. Among its advanced features, the engine is designed with high reliability for performance under demanding conditions, which include operational efficiency at altitudes up to 5000 meters and temperatures ranging from -40°C to +55°C.

The project, which commenced in 2020, is anticipated to reach completion by mid-2025, with the production of these engines marking a critical milestone in India’s defense capability enhancement endeavors.

Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane highlighted the significance of the project during the inaugural test-firing event at BEML’s Engine division in Mysuru, calling it a "transformative moment" for India’s defense technology. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader push towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing.