NATIONAL: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with Larsen and Toubro (L&T), recently tested its indigenous light battle tank, Zorawar, in Gujarat’s Hazira. This development marks a significant milestone in India’s defense capabilities, particularly aimed at bolstering the Indian Army’s strategic posture in the eastern Ladakh sector, where tensions with China persist
Lightweight and Amphibious Design Weighing just 25 tons, Zorawar is a stark contrast to the heavier T-72 and T-90 tanks. Its lightweight design is a strategic advantage, enabling it to operate effectively in challenging mountain terrain that is typically inaccessible to heavier tanks. Additionally, Zorawar’s amphibious capabilities allow it to traverse rivers and other water bodies seamlessly, providing unmatched operational flexibility in diverse terrains.
Zorawar is equipped with a formidable 105mm or higher caliber main gun capable of firing anti-tank guided missiles. This advanced weaponry ensures that Zorawar can neutralize armored threats effectively. Furthermore, the tank features modular explosive reactive armor and an active protection system, significantly enhancing its survivability on the battlefield.
Mobility and Integration With a power-to-weight ratio of at least 30 hp/ton, Zorawar boasts superior mobility, crucial for rapid deployment and maneuverability in high-altitude areas. The integration of drones and battle management systems provides enhanced situational awareness, making Zorawar a technologically advanced asset on the modern battlefield.
The tank is named after the 19th-century Dogra General Zorawar Singh, known for his military expeditions to Ladakh and Western Tibet. This historical reference underscores the tank’s intended role in high-altitude operations. Zorawar’s deployment is poised to balance the scales against China’s existing fleet of lightweight mountain tanks, such as the Type 15, thereby strengthening India’s defensive and offensive capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
The Indian Army has placed an initial order for 59 Zorawar tanks, with plans to potentially procure a total of 354 light tanks. This procurement strategy reflects a long-term commitment to enhancing the army’s capabilities in high-altitude warfare. The induction of Zorawar into the Indian Army is expected by 2027, signaling a significant enhancement in India’s military preparedness against Chinese deployments across the LAC.