New Delhi: Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel was officially launched by General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), in New Delhi on Friday.
Developed jointly by the Indian Army and Oil Marketing Companies, Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel is an indigenously developed specialised fuel designed to enhance the mobility, safety and operational availability of combat and logistics vehicles in extreme climatic conditions.
The innovation also has wider civilian applications in high-altitude and severe winter regions, marking another step towards the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The newly developed Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel addresses a major operational challenge faced by conventional diesel in extremely low temperatures.
Standard diesel tends to thicken and clog fuel filters in freezing conditions, affecting the performance of vehicles operating in high-altitude and snow-bound areas.
Designed to remain effective at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius, Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel ensures reliable vehicle performance even under some of the harshest climatic conditions.
The fuel complies with BS-VI emission standards and IS 1460:2025 specifications, enabling it to be used across the Indian Army‘s existing fleet without requiring engine modifications or re-homologation.
Speaking at the launch, General Dhiraj Seth described Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel as a game-changing indigenous innovation that would significantly enhance mobility, operational readiness and mission reliability across extreme climatic conditions.
He said the specialised fuel would eliminate practices previously required to keep military vehicles functional during severe winters, thereby improving both the safety and morale of personnel deployed in challenging environments.
The Chief of the Army Staff commended the Indian Army team and the Oil Marketing Companies for developing the indigenous solution within a year.
He also expressed confidence that the collaboration would pave the way for the development of more specialised fuels to meet diverse operational requirements in the future.
Apart from strengthening military operations, Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel is expected to benefit civilian users in high-altitude and extreme winter regions.
The technology will improve the reliability and safety of vehicles and equipment operating under severe climatic conditions, extending its advantages beyond defence applications.
The launch of Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel reflects the growing emphasis on indigenous technological development while supporting operational efficiency and self-reliance in critical sectors.
