The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of the first phase of developmental field firing trials of India’s light tank, ‘Zorawar’.
This light tank, designed to enhance India’s defence capabilities, demonstrated impressive performance during these trials, marking an important step in its development.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, the trials were conducted on September 13, 2024, in desert terrain, where Zorawar showcased its remarkable versatility and firepower.
The tank was able to meet all objectives, with its firing performance evaluated for accuracy against designated targets. The successful trials are a reflection of the hard work put in by DRDO, its industrial partners, and the Indian Army.
Zorawar has been developed by the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), a DRDO unit, in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro Ltd (L&T).
Many Indian industries, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), contributed to the development of various sub-systems for this tank. This collaboration highlights the strength of indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities in India.
The Indian light tank Zorawar is designed to operate in challenging environments, such as high-altitude areas, where mobility and adaptability are critical. The tank weighs 25 tonnes and has the ability to move swiftly in mountain valleys.
Additionally, the tank’s size and design allow the Indian Air Force to transport two tanks at a time using its C-17 aircraft, further enhancing its strategic value.
Zorawar’s development also took into consideration recent lessons learned from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In response, DRDO and L&T integrated Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) technology and loitering munitions into the tank, giving it a modern edge on the battlefield.
The light tank’s successful trials are expected to boost India’s efforts toward becoming self-reliant in defence technologies and systems. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the DRDO, the Indian Army, and all industrial partners for their efforts in this project, stating that this accomplishment is a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence.
The development of Zorawar is a crucial step toward strengthening India’s defence infrastructure, particularly in high-altitude and difficult terrains. The tank’s mobility, lightweight design, and adaptability make it a vital asset for the Indian Army in protecting the nation’s borders. In the initial phase, the Indian Army will receive 59 units of Zorawar, with further plans to expand its deployment.
The collaboration between DRDO, L&T, and numerous Indian industries is a testament to India’s growing capability to design, manufacture, and develop advanced defence technologies domestically.
By involving MSMEs and other sectors, the government is fostering a strong ecosystem for indigenous defence manufacturing, which will contribute to the country’s long-term security goals.
As the development of Zorawar progresses through its subsequent phases of trials, its success will be a critical factor in enhancing India’s combat capabilities.
The tank’s ability to perform effectively in difficult terrains, combined with its modern technological advancements, is expected to play a crucial role in future military operations.
With the completion of this first phase of trials, Zorawar is now closer to becoming fully operational and ready for deployment. The continued focus on innovation and self-reliance in defence technologies underscores India’s commitment to securing its defence infrastructure and reducing dependence on foreign imports.
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