JSC Rosoboronexport, part of the Rostec State Corporation, has organized the production of 3VBM17 Mango rounds in India, marking a major milestone for India in enhancing its defence capabilities. This strategic alliance aims to localize the production of 125 mm 3VBM17 Mango rounds, featuring an armor-piercing sub-caliber projectile, marking a critical milestone in India’s path towards self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing.
Rosoboronexport facilitates licensed production at the customer’s facilities and actively engages in establishing joint ventures to manufacture Russian military products in partner countries. The 125 mm Mango round, designed for T-72 and T-90 tanks, incorporates the 3BM42 fin-stabilized armor piercing sub-caliber round capable of penetrating modern tanks equipped with composite armor. Various versions of these combat vehicles are currently operational within the Indian Ground Forces.
Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Rostec State Corporation, emphasized the strategic importance of such partnerships, highlighting the transfer of technology and competencies as crucial advantages. Projects like the licensed production of T-90 tanks and Mango shells with armor-piercing capabilities underscore Rostec’s commitment to fostering indigenous defence capabilities in partner countries.
Looking ahead, plans include launching gunpowder production in India to achieve maximum localization for the Mango shells. This initiative aligns with India’s Make In India and Self-Sufficient India programs, aiming to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on imports.
Alexander Mikheev, CEO of Rosoboronexport, highlighted the completion of key production facilities in India underlining a significant phase in Russian-Indian cooperation. “Rosoboronexport’s work in India is a striking example of a comprehensive industrial partnership, within the framework of which joint projects have been developed for all types of armed forces with a unique degree of cooperation between enterprises of the two countries for the world market.”, he said.
This strategic alliance not only bolsters India’s defence capabilities but also sets a precedent for international collaboration in defence manufacturing, underscoring the mutual benefits of technology transfer and joint production ventures.