Army unveils diesel that works in minus 42°C, boosts high-altitude operations
Army Chief Gen Dhiraj Seth on Friday unveiled an indigenously developed Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) diesel that can remain effective at temperatures as low as
Army Chief Gen Dhiraj Seth on Friday unveiled an indigenously developed Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) diesel that can remain effective at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius, describing it as a "game-changing" indigenous innovation that would enhance mobility, operational readiness and mission reliability. The specialised fuel, developed jointly by the Indian Army and oil marketing companies, is aimed at improving the mobility, safety and operational availability of combat and logistics vehicles in extreme climatic conditions.
The defence ministry said the technology also has wider civilian use in high-altitude and severe winter regions. Read Full Story At an event in New Delhi, Gen Seth said the fuel would improve operations across extreme weather conditions. He said it would eliminate practices previously required to keep vehicles functional during severe winters, thereby improving the safety and morale of personnel. He also commended the Indian Army team and the oil marketing companies for developing the solution within a year, and expressed confidence that the collaboration would lead to further specialised fuels for diverse operational requirements.
The defence ministry said the fuel is compliant with BS-VI standards and IS 1460:2025 specifications, and can be used in the Indian Army's existing vehicle fleet without any engine modification or re-homologation. Officials said conventional diesel can thicken and clog fuel filters at very low temperatures, affecting the operation of vehicles in high-altitude and snow-bound areas. XWG diesel overcomes this challenge and remains effective at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius, the ministry said.
The ministry said the technology marks a significant step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and would also benefit civilian vehicles in high-altitude and extreme winter regions by improving the reliability and safety of vehicles and equipment operating in severe climatic conditions. Ends
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