The first prototype of India’s light tank is “heading to Chennai for modifications” after completing high-altitude trials in the country’s northern borders, according to Chief of the Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi
The development of the Zorawar light tank has been driven by a requirement for lightweight, easily deployable tanks, that could be transported by air. The necessity became evident during the 2020 conflict with China in eastern Ladakh when 42-ton T-72 tanks were taken to high altitudes where they faced challenges including -40°C temperatures which impacted performance, transportation and maintenance of the vehicles.
China has positioned many of its 500 30-ton Type 15 light tanks in the Tibetan Plateau and other high-altitude regions.
Presently called Zorawar, a final name for the light tank has yet to be decided, Dwivedi told
Shephard. It will be developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with production partner Larsen & Toubro (L&T) at the latter’s heavy engineering plant in Hazira, Gujarat.
“Zorawar showcases India’s rapid innovation and indigenous capability in defence manufacturing,” said Balpreet Singh, consultant at Ernst & Young, Aerospace & Defence.
High-altitude trials for the vehicle were held in Nyoma, Ladakh, at 4,200m (13,800ft). It has been designed to be amphibious for use in riverine regions, and further trials were held in Pangong Tso lake in eastern Ladakh.
The Indian Army has requisitioned 354 light tanks worth US$2 billion “to begin with”, according to Dwivedi. An initial order for 59 light tanks has been placed with Larsen & Toubro and DRDO.
“Following changes suggested during trials, we will see the new version and thereafter we will carry out more trials,” Dwivedi added. “Once complete, I’m sure the balance orders will [be released].”
The additional 295 vehicle bid, in which the Zorawar will participate, will likely also include Bharat Forge which has been developing a light tank under 25 tons.
The Zorawar prototype is powered by the US Cummins VTA903E-T760 engine which delivers 760hp. The 3-crew, 25-ton light tank with amphibious capabilities, is to be equipped with a 105mm calibre gun turret from Belgium’s John Cockerill. It also has an autoloader and a remote-controlled 7.62mm calibre machine gun.
The tank can launch anti-tank guided missiles from the main gun, as well as a twin side-mounted launcher on the left side. Also featured are two Safran Paseo electro-optical systems, thermal imaging and laser rangefinders.
Alongside, the Indian Army has around 2,500 T-72s with Russian V-12 diesel engines. A decision to upgrade 1400 has seen slippages, primarily as a solution to upgrade the present 750hp engine with an indigenous 1,000hp engine has yet to fructify.
