India-Russia strengthen military ties with joint tank shell production
India has recently shifted its approach to developing its defensive and offensive capabilities, gradually distancing itself from Russia. However, according to the Bulgarian Military portal, India and Russia have now agreed to produce the 3VBM17 Mango shell, caliber 4.72 inches, jointly.
10:06 AM EDT, July 6, 2024
In the past few months, signals from India have raised concerns for Russia, indicating a potential loosening of ties between the two countries. Earlier in June this year, it was revealed that India had announced a tender for a new air defense system similar to the Russian S-400, which New Delhi had previously shown interest in.
India's gradual distancing from Russia was also evident in its choice to develop a domestic tank under the Zorawar project instead of purchasing the Russian light tank Sprut SMD1. Although a complete break in relations with Russia was unlikely, India's recent actions could suggest a desire to significantly "cool" relations with its partner.
However, relations between India and Russia seem to be strengthening, as evidenced by Rostec's announcement. Rostec is Russia's state-owned defense industry enterprise, and according to the announcement, the Russians have started producing 3VBM17 Mango shells in India.
Shells designed to combat Abrams
The Bulgarian Military portal notes that it is currently unclear whether India intends to export part of the 3VBM17 production back to Russia. It is worth emphasizing, however, that this is ammunition designed for destroying the most heavily armored tanks encountered on the front lines. This primarily refers to the American M1 Abrams and British Challengers.
The 3VBM17 Mango shells are intended for Russian T-72 and T-90 tanks, also part of the Indian army's arsenal. The same designs are also in the arsenal of the Indian army, so it can be assumed that the weapon jointly produced with Russia will mainly meet India's needs. However, the export of shells to Russia cannot be ruled out, as the T-72 and T-90 tanks are also present.
The 3VBM17 Mango shells are approximately 22.4 inches long and about 1.18 inches in diameter. Inside the ammunition is a tungsten carbide core encased in steel. This design is intended to increase penetration capabilities while maintaining the shell's structural integrity upon impact, as reported.
The 3VBM17 mango shell's initial speed determines its high armor-piercing capabilities. After leaving the barrel, it reaches approximately 5,577 feet per second, or over 3,728 mph. The range of this ammunition, now produced in India, depends on the tank from which it is fired and the external conditions during shooting. Generally, however, the 3VBM17 is effective at a distance of up to 1.24 miles. At this range, Mango can penetrate the armor of virtually any tank on the modern battlefield.
