In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor explore the future of India's armoured capabilities in light of the government's recent approval of ₹1,44,716 crore for capital acquisitions. This includes modernising the Indian Army's tank fleet through the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program.

The new tank FRCV aims to replace around 2,500 four-decade-old Soviet-origin T-72 tanks first acquired in 1982.

Why is the FRCV project necessary, and how does it address the shortcomings of previous tank modernisation efforts, such as the Arjun project? What is the current status of India's tank fleet, and how do the ageing T-72s and T-90s fit into the Army's broader defence strategy?

The Arjun tank project—marked by controversy and unmet expectations between the Army and DRDO—is analysed, with the hosts reflecting on its failures. The two explain this by giving an overview of tank evolution, from their roles in World Wars I and II to their enduring importance in modern warfare, particularly for India's territorial defence. The FRCV is seen as a corrective step, aiming to build a modern, modular, and agile tank capable of meeting diverse battlefield needs while fully indigenised.

But, some critics believe that the FCRV program seems like an Arjun 2.0. Is it?

Also, don’t miss the discussion on Sunil Shetty’s iconic tank-lifting scene in the movie Border—could it really happen?

Listen in!

Produced by Anna Priydarshini

Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi