Indian Army launches indigenous XWG diesel that works at minus 42°C for tanks, combat vehicles along LAC, LoC

The Indian Army has introduced an indigenously developed Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) diesel to enhance combat readiness and operational mobility in extreme cold conditions across Eastern Ladakh and other sectors along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC). Designed for sub-zero environments, the specialised fuel remains effective at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius, ensuring uninterrupted operation of combat and logistics vehicles in high-altitude areas.

The rollout comes as the Army continues to strengthen its presence in Eastern Ladakh, where hundreds of tanks and infantry combat vehicles are deployed along the LAC. Conventional diesel tends to thicken and clog filters in freezing temperatures, affecting vehicle performance in snow-bound regions. XWG diesel has been developed to overcome this challenge.

XWG diesel compatible with existing Army vehicle fleet

The new fuel complies with BS-VI standards and IS 1460:2025 specifications, allowing it to be used across the Army's existing fleet without requiring engine modifications or re-homologation.


The Chief of Army Staff described the fuel as a "game-changing indigenous innovation" that will improve operational readiness and mission reliability. He said it would eliminate the need for cumbersome winter procedures previously followed to keep vehicles functional in extreme weather.

Earlier, soldiers had to start and run vehicles at regular intervals throughout the day and night to prevent diesel from freezing and damaging vehicle components. These measures placed additional strain on personnel and machinery while also reducing engine life, particularly at high altitudes where thin air affects the fuel-air mixture.

The Army Chief also expressed confidence in future collaborations to develop specialised fuels suited to the Army's varied operational requirements. The XWG diesel was jointly developed with oil marketing companies in less than a year.

High-altitude maintenance facilities boost combat readiness

To further strengthen operational preparedness, the Army has established two of the world's highest armoured vehicle maintenance and repair facilities at Nyoma and the Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) sector. Both facilities are located at altitudes above 14,500 feet.

The facilities support the Army's combat fleet, including T-90 and T-72 tanks, BMP-2K infantry combat vehicles and K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers, ensuring they remain mission-ready despite rugged terrain and temperatures dropping to minus 40 degrees Celsius.

Fuel to benefit civilians in extreme winter regions

The introduction of XWG diesel is expected to reinforce the military's preparedness along India's high-altitude frontiers. The specialised fuel will also be made available to civilians living in these regions, helping them cope with severe winter conditions while improving vehicle reliability in freezing temperatures.

(With inputs from TOI)