Mangaluru: A historic T-55 battle tank that served the Indian Army during the 1971 India-Pakistan War was officially unveiled at the War Memorial in Kadri Hills on Sunday as part of the Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations. The decommissioned tank, which played a significant role in some of the most decisive battles of the 1971 conflict, now stands as a permanent tribute to the courage and sacrifice of India’s armed forces.
The unveiling ceremony was led by Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta in the presence of retired defence personnel, elected representatives and members of the Dakshina Kannada District Ex-Servicemen’s Association. The event also included tributes to soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation.
Tank installed as a symbol of military valour
Speaking after unveiling the battle tank, Capt Brijesh Chowta said the installation of the decommissioned T-55 tank at the War Memorial was a fitting tribute to India’s brave soldiers on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
He noted that the tank had served the nation with distinction during the 1971 India-Pakistan War and would continue to inspire future generations by reminding them of the courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment displayed by Indian Army personnel.
The MP urged citizens, particularly students and youngsters, to visit the memorial and learn about the rich traditions and glorious legacy of the country’s armed forces. He said such memorials help preserve the history of India’s military achievements while fostering patriotism among the public.
Veterans recall experiences from the battlefield
The commemorative programme featured speeches by retired senior Army officers who shared their experiences from military operations.
Brigadier I. N. Rai, who participated in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, recalled his service during the conflict and also spoke about his deployment at frontline positions during the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) operations in Sri Lanka.
Former president of the Dakshina Kannada Ex-Servicemen’s Association, Colonel N. Sharath Bhandary, highlighted the significance of the Kargil War and paid tribute to the soldiers whose courage ensured the country’s security.
Floral tributes were offered to martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice while serving the nation, adding solemnity to the Kargil Vijay Diwas observance.
Dignitaries attend the ceremony
Several retired armed forces personnel and public representatives attended the programme.
Among those present were vice-president Colonel A. K. Jayachandran, treasurer CPO Sudheer Pai, former MLC Capt Ganesh Karnik, MLA D. Vedavyas Kamath, MLC Kishore Kumar Puttur and president of the Dakshina Kannada District Ex-Servicemen’s Association and retired Indian Air Force officer Shrikanth Shetty Bala.
The programme concluded with secretary Captain Deepak Adyanthaya delivering the vote of thanks, while PO Vikram Dutt compered the event.
T-55 tank’s distinguished service history
The T-55 battle tank was inducted into the Indian Army in the mid-1960s and went on to become the backbone of the Armoured Corps for more than four decades. It remained in active service until its retirement in May 2011 after a long and distinguished operational career.
The tank earned recognition for its role in India’s success during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, particularly in the Battles of Garibpur, Nainakot and Basantar. These battles proved crucial in India’s military campaign that ultimately led to the creation of Bangladesh.
Its deployment across several theatres of operation established the T-55 as one of the most dependable armoured fighting vehicles used by the Indian Army during that period.
Technical features of the T-55
The T-55 battle tank weighs approximately 36 tonnes and is equipped with a 100 mm rifled main gun. Its secondary armament includes a 7.62 mm PKT coaxial machine gun and a 12.7 mm anti-aircraft gun.
Powering the tank is a V-55 V-12 water-cooled diesel engine capable of producing between 520 and 580 horsepower, allowing it to achieve a top speed of around 50 kmph.
The vehicle has an operational range of nearly 510 km, which can be extended to about 600 km with auxiliary fuel tanks. It is operated by a crew of four soldiers and was designed to provide mobility, firepower and battlefield protection.
The installation of the T-55 battle tank at the Kadri Hills War Memorial ensures that an important piece of India’s military history will remain accessible to the public, serving as a lasting reminder of the bravery and dedication of the nation’s armed forces.