Arjun MK-1A Tank is entirely a new avatar of Mk1
Like Tejas fighter aircraft, Arjun took a long time to mature and fructify. However now just like Tejas Mk1A even Arjun Mk 1A is turning out to be a world beater. The latest version of the Arjun MK-1A has comes after 89 improvements over the previous MK-1 version.
The tank was presented just days ago at the local defence and security exhibition DefExpo 2022. 73 of the improvements will also be incorporated in the MK-1 serving with the Army.
The Avadi factory has made some key integrations in the MK-1A. These include the NERA for protection, the gunner’s main sight with the automatic target tracking system, as well as the integration of the commander’s panoramic sight [CPS MK-II].
The tank’s daytime sights are now doubled, and a laser rangefinder and a thermal imaging sight have been added to them. As you can see, serious attention has been paid to the command centre in the tank. The driver now has an uncooled measuring system with binocular vision. In this number, we can include the integration of a new advanced navigation system.
The Arjun MK-1A is design went into production last year. If we compare the two versions of the tank according to their basic characteristics, we will find very small differences, but they are there.
MK-1A is heavier than MK-1 by over 9 tons. This leads to a reduction in top speed. MK-1 moves at 70 km/h, while MK-1A at 58 km/h.
One of the main differences is in the turret of the tank. MK-1A has an integrated remotely operated turret, as well as an increased amount of smoke grenades – 16 (MK-1 has 12).
Back on the turret, the MK-1A has improved Kanchan and ERA armour, while the MK1 continues with composite modular armour. Here, the manufacturer says that in the future, the MK-1 may also receive improved armour.
Although the tank moves at a lower top speed than its predecessor, here the manufacturer has made improvements that make the Arjun MK-1A much more secure and mobile in difficult terrain. This is achieved thanks to a new auxiliary power unit.
According to HVF, it is twice as powerful as the MK-1. The undercarriage features a new system, thanks to a redesigned hydro pneumatic suspension system.
Last but not least is that a large part of the improvements was carried out with a local resource. I.e. India continues to improve and work on Made in India program.
India intends not only to arm itself with the Arjun MK-1A but also to prepare the tank for export. The first signs that the Indian tank was attracting interest came from Bahrain. This happened in March when the two governments began negotiations.
Arjun will turn out to be a world beater and more valuable to India. Today, Arjun is at the heart of India’s latest launch program – the development of an unmanned ground vehicle.
In April this year, India announced these intentions, explicitly emphasizing that the Arjun MK-1 would be at the heart of the entire project.
