India Unveils 'Zorawar' Light Tank for High-Altitude Defense

The 'Zorawar' light tank, developed by DRDO and Larsen & Toubro, is a 25-ton vehicle designed for high-altitude operations. It is powered by a 750 HP Cummins Engine and is expected to be completed by 2027.

Development and Collaboration

Joint venture between DRDO and Larsen & Toubro
Designed and developed in record time of 2 years
Named after General Zorawar Singh, "Conqueror of Ladakh"
Prototype powered by 750 HP Cummins Engine
Future units to feature domestically developed engine
Projected timeline for development completion: 2027

Technical Specifications and Features

25-ton vehicle designed for high-altitude operations
Equipped with 105mm rifled cannon-fitted turret by John Cockerill
Advanced protection: composite modular armor
Planned integrations: Laser Warning receivers, Active Protection System, Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems
Amphibious capabilities for crossing water bodies

Key systems:

- Paseo Electro-Optical cameras from SAFRAN
- Remote-Controlled Weapon system (RCWS) from BEL
- Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs)
- Smoke Launchers

Strategic Importance and Future Plans

Response to Chinese Type 15 Light Tanks deployed in Ladakh
Fills gap in Indian Army's high-altitude operational capabilities
Target procurement: over 350 units under Buy Indian-IDDM category
Intended deployment areas: Ladakh, Sikkim, Kashmir
Undergoing trials for next 12-18 months
Aims to enhance India's military modernization and indigenization efforts

The introduction of the ‘Zorawar’ light tank represents India’s efforts to modernize its armed forces and lessen reliance on foreign military hardware has received a major boost. This project demonstrates India's increasing ability in defense technology and its dedication to strategic self-reliance by meeting particular operational needs and utilizing domestic engineering capabilities.

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