It has been a giant leap for India in defence capabilities, as it is developing an indigenous light tank, Zorawar. Two years of collaborative work—for the first time ever between the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and private defence major Larsen & Toubro—has led to nothing short of landmark development.
The requirement of a light weight tank, of about 25 tonnes, came up in view of the continuing border tensions with China in Ladakh. It was realized that in a high-altitude area, with its low-oxygen settings and issues in transportation, it would be difficult to move heavy tanks, such as the Arjun MBT at 68 tons. These areas, including sensitive borders like Galwan and Pangong, would be turned by Zorawar with its ability, power, and lethality.
Development of the Zorawar came after the deployment of China’s Type 15 light tank in the Himalayas. The tank is named after the military leader of the 19th century, General Zorawar Singh Kahluria, and epitomizes India’s commitment toward self-reliance in defence technology. Within weeks of the Indian Army firming up requirements in September 2022, L&T was selected as the development partner, and induction by 2023 was set as the target. It was only just a few weeks ago, in early 2024, that prototypes were delivered to the Army, and track trials actually began in July 2024. Further testing in the deserts and high-altitude conditions, including Ladakh, will be done before induction by 2027.
Confirming the first order for 59 numbers of Zorawar tanks, the L&T representative added that the competition from the Indian Army’s decision to buy 295 more light tanks augured well for Zorawar, which was locking horns with other competitors at the trial stage, among them being a similar tank of 25 tons being developed by Bharat Forge.
The fact that it is now changing from a large-scale importer of T-72 and T-90 tanks to indigenous production with competition among Indian manufacturers, is a good augury. This will ensure that India is in a position to meet its defense requirements with modern weaponry, attuned to contemporary challenges.