This is an up-powered version of the AVDS-1790-2C with commonality of over 70 per cent between the two diesel-powered engines. It has power increased to 1,200 hp (894 kW) gross or 642 hp net, an 800 A alternator and the same dimensions as the AVDS-1790-8CR. The AVDS-1790-9AR powers the Merkava Mk 3 MBT and received NATO certification from TACOM in February 1988.