Indian Army’s T-90 Bhishma Tanks Get DRDO Underwater Upgrade
The Indian Army’s T-90 Bhishma main battle tanks have been equipped with cutting-edge underwater maneuvering capabilities developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This enhancement allows the tanks to operate submerged in water up to five meters deep for a duration of up to one hour, drastically improving their battlefield flexibility in riverine and marshy terrain.
This capability addresses a longstanding challenge faced by armored units during river crossings and amphibious maneuvers, offering India a tactical edge in border regions marked by natural water barriers.
DRDO Equipment Ensures Crew Safety Underwater
While the T-90 platform already had fording capability, DRDO’s upgrade focuses on enhancing the survivability and operational efficiency of the crew during fully submerged conditions. The system ensures continuous oxygen supply and pressurization, making it possible for the crew to remain operational even when the tank is underwater.
The upgrade features an advanced snorkel system and life-support gear integrated seamlessly into the tank’s cabin, preventing water ingress and maintaining air quality and visibility inside the vehicle.
Boost to Tactical Capabilities Along River-Dense Fronts
India’s border regions with Pakistan in the west and China in the north include terrain dominated by rivers, marshes, and seasonal nullahs. In such regions, armored mobility has historically faced bottlenecks during monsoons or rapid troop movement scenarios.
The new capability will enable Indian armored columns to carry out stealthier river-crossing operations without needing dedicated engineering bridges or pontoons, thereby speeding up deployment and improving strategic surprise during offensive or defensive operations.
Modernization of Armored Fleet Continues
This underwater enhancement is part of the Indian Army’s broader effort to modernize its armored corps. The T-90 Bhishma Mk-3 variant—currently being rolled out—already features thermal imaging sights developed by DRDO and Bharat Electronics Limited, an automatic target tracking system, and enhanced night-fighting capabilities.
Together, these features are transforming the T-90 Bhishma fleet into a highly mobile and lethal combat system suited for 21st-century warfare, particularly in varied Indian terrain ranging from deserts to high-altitude battlefields.c
