---
title: "Arjun Main Battle Tank: India's Indigenous MBT"
description: "The Arjun Main Battle Tank is India's DRDO-developed third-generation MBT inducted in 2004, with the Mk-1A variant ordered in 2021. Key UPSC GS3 defence topic."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/arjun-main-battle-tank"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Arjun is India's indigenously designed third-generation main battle tank, developed by the DRDO's Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment and inducted into the Indian Army.
- Who designed and produces the Arjun tank?
- How does the Arjun differ from the T-90 Bhishma?
- What enhancements does the Arjun Mk-1A include?
- Why is the Arjun relevant to UPSC GS Paper III?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

The Arjun is India's indigenously designed third-generation main battle tank, developed by the DRDO's Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment and inducted into the Indian Army.

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In September 2021, India's Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth about ₹7,523 crore with the Heavy Vehicles Factory, Avadi, for 118 Arjun Mk-1A main battle tanks for the Indian Army.

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