Army chief launches indigenous Xtreme Weather Diesel for high-altitude military operations
New Delhi, July 31. Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth on Friday launched an indigenously developed Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) Diesel, a specialised fuel designed to improve the mobility and operational readiness of military vehicles in extreme cold and high-altitude regions.
Developed jointly by the Indian Army and oil marketing companies, the new fuel is capable of operating at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius, addressing a critical challenge faced by conventional diesel, which tends to thicken and clog fuel filters in sub-zero conditions, affecting vehicle performance in snow-bound areas.
The Ministry of Defence said the BS-VI-compliant fuel, developed in accordance with IS 1460:2025 specifications, can be used across the Army’s existing fleet of combat and logistics vehicles without requiring engine modifications or re-homologation.
Launching the fuel in New Delhi, General Seth described XWG Diesel as a “game-changing” indigenous innovation that would significantly enhance mobility, operational preparedness and mission reliability in harsh climatic conditions.
He said the new fuel would eliminate several temporary measures that were previously necessary to keep military vehicles operational during severe winters, thereby improving both safety and troop morale.
The Army Chief commended the Indian Army team and the oil marketing companies for developing the specialised fuel within a year and expressed confidence that the collaboration would pave the way for more customised fuels to meet diverse operational requirements.
Besides strengthening military capabilities, the technology is also expected to benefit civilian users in high-altitude and extreme winter regions by improving the reliability and safety of vehicles and equipment operating under severe weather conditions.
The Ministry said the development marks another step towards the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by promoting indigenous technological solutions for both defence and civilian applications.
