NEW DELHI - The Indian defense ministry on Friday signed a $248-million deal with Russia's Rosoboronexport for the procurement of engines for T-72 tanks.

The deal also includes the transfer of technology from the Russian side to the state-run Armored Vehicles Nigam Limited (heavy vehicle factory) based at Avadi in the southern city of Chennai, according to a statement by the ministry.

India will buy "1,000 HP Engines for T-72 Tanks in fully formed, completely knocked down and semi knocked down conditions," said the statement.

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According to the ministry, T-72 is the mainstay of the tank fleet of the Indian army, which is at present fitted with 780 HP Engine.

"Equipping the existing fleet of T-72 Tanks with 1,000 HP Engine will enhance the battlefield mobility and offensive capability of the Indian army," the ministry said in the statement.