The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has entered into a contract with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), a unit of Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL), for the procurement of 47 Tank-72 Bridge Laying Tanks (BLT) for the Indian Army, valued at Rs 1,560.52 crore. The contract was signed by senior officials from MoD and HVF/AVNL in New Delhi on January 21, 2025, in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The BLT is a crucial piece of equipment used to deploy bridges during offensive and defensive operations by Mechanized Forces. It enhances the mobility and offensive capabilities of the Tank and Armoured Vehicle fleet by providing integral bridging capabilities on the battlefield. This project, being a “Buy (Indian)” initiative, aligns with the Make-in-India effort, boosting indigenous defence manufacturing. Additionally, it is expected to contribute to the national economy and create job opportunities in the country.
