ARV-3

The ARV-3 gives the Indian Army a protected recovery platform for tank formations. Army Technology identifies it as an armoured recovery vehicle derived from the WZT-3, while Army Guide profiles the WZT-3 as a Polish recovery vehicle developed from the T-72/PT-91 family. India's use of the type reflects a practical logistics requirement: tank units need vehicles that can recover, tow, repair, and support disabled armor in the same terrain as the tanks themselves.

ARV-3 is not a fighting tank; its equipment set is centered on force sustainment. Recovery winches, a crane, dozer or stabilizing equipment, and workshop tools allow the crew to move immobilized tanks, lift components, and support field repair. Using a tank-derived chassis preserves mobility and protection, which matters when recovery has to occur under threat or on damaged routes.

In service, recovery vehicles are rarely visible but operationally decisive. A disabled tank can block movement, expose a crew, or become a total loss unless it is recovered quickly. ARV-3 helps Indian armored units preserve combat power by bringing heavy winching, towing, and repair support forward. It is therefore a sustainment system rather than a weapons system, but it directly affects armored-unit readiness.