Tarmour

   The Tarmour heavy armored personnel carrier is a recent Indian development. It is a conversion of ageing Soviet T-55 medium tanks. India operates around 900 T-55 tanks, that are in process of being phased out. This heavy APC shows some Israel's influence in it's design.

   Protection of the Tarmour heavy APC is similar to MBTs. It uses Kanchan heavy composite armor, which is broadly similar to the British Chobham. Explosive reactive armor blocks can be added for improved protection. It is claimed that Tarmour's armor provides all-round protection against RPG-7 rounds. Vehicle is fitted with NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems.

   The Tarmour is armed with a remotely controlled 12.7-mm machine gun. This weapon station is operated by vehicle's commander.

   Vehicle has a crew of two and provides accommodation for 9 troops. Troops enter and leave the vehicle through the rear door.

   The Tarmour heavy APC is based on a Soviet T-55 medium tank chassis, but has a raised superstructure. It is worth mentioning that India operates a number of ageing Soviet T-55 medium tanks, that pose little threat to modern main battle tanks. Original engine of the T-55 was replaced with more powerful Detroit Diesel 8V92TA diesel, developing 850 hp.

   Vehicle can be tailored to suit specific operational requirements. It can be also used as ambulance, combat engineering vehicle, armored earth mover or mine plough.