The Indian Ministry of Defence awarded a Rs 586 crore contract to Pune-based Accurate Industrial Controls Private Limited for manufacturing indigenous Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for use in Indian Army T-72 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) and T-90 MBTs. The contract was signed in New Delhi on 21 September 2026. An APU is a small, dedicated power supply used to produce electricity for a tank’s various electrical systems. It can power the fire-control systems, firing circuits, gun-stabilisation equipment and other auxiliary systems while the main engine is idling, thus conserving fuel, engine hours, thermal signature and acoustic signature during surveillance or standby.
The domestically assembled units are expected to enhance the operational capability, availability, and durability of the Army’s mechanized formations. The programme is especially notable because the T-72 and T-90 form the bulk of India’s armoured fleet and are set to remain in service for decades. The procurement used the Make-II route, which enables industry-led research, design, and production.
It is therefore about more than just buying new equipment: it shows the transformation of a locally-developed technology into a production order for a vital armoured vehicle part. Locally-made electronics will give India more control over upgrades, spare parts and maintenance. The programme contributes to the larger goal of cutting reliance on foreign-manufactured parts, while upgrading older platforms with specialised electronics, power management and survivability features.
