Intro
Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth launched indigenously developed XWG Diesel to enhance military vehicle performance in extreme high-altitude conditions.
New Delhi
Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth on Friday launched the indigenously developed ‘Xtreme Weather Grade’ (XWG) Diesel, a specialised fuel designed to significantly improve the mobility and operational readiness of military vehicles in extreme weather conditions.
Speaking at the launch, General Seth described XWG Diesel as a game-changing indigenous innovation that would strengthen the Army’s operational capabilities while ensuring greater mission reliability across challenging terrains and severe climatic conditions.
Developed jointly by the Indian Army and Oil Marketing Companies, the specialised fuel has been engineered to keep combat and logistics vehicles operational in high-altitude and snow-bound regions where conventional diesel often fails due to freezing temperatures.
According to an official statement, conventional diesel thickens at extremely low temperatures, leading to clogged fuel filters and vehicle breakdowns. XWG Diesel addresses this challenge by remaining effective even at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius, ensuring uninterrupted mobility during harsh winters.
The fuel complies with BS-VI emission norms and IS 1460:2025 specifications, enabling its seamless use across the Indian Army’s existing fleet without requiring engine modifications or re-homologation.
General Seth said the new fuel would eliminate several temporary measures traditionally adopted to keep military vehicles functional during severe winters, thereby enhancing the safety, efficiency and morale of troops deployed in difficult operational environments.
He also congratulated the Indian Army team and the Oil Marketing Companies for developing the specialised fuel within a year and expressed confidence that similar indigenous innovations would meet future operational requirements while contributing to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Quote
XWG Diesel is a game-changing indigenous innovation that will enhance mobility, operational readiness and mission reliability across extreme climatic conditions
Dhiraj Seth, Army Chief General
Box
XWG Diesel remains operational at temperatures as low as minus 42°C, meets BS-VI standards, and can be used in the Army’s existing vehicle fleet without any engine modifications.
