Zorawar, the new light tank jointly developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), has been officially unveiled as it continues its extensive developmental phase initiated in January 2024. Named in honour of Zorawar Singh, renowned for his Himalayan expeditions, this state-of-the-art tank is scheduled to undergo rigorous trials across diverse terrains, from deserts to the rugged landscapes of Ladakh. Poised to achieve full operational capability by 2027, the Zorawar represents a significant advancement in India’s defence capabilities.
Light tanks like the Zorawar play a critical role in strategic operations in high-altitude regions due to their agility and operational versatility, outperforming heavier counterparts. Against the backdrop of ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Indian Army’s decision to procure 354 Zorawar tanks underscores their pivotal role in enhancing border defences. The Indian Army’s decision to immediately procure 59 units from DRDO and L&T emphasises the urgency of strengthening defensive capabilities. Meanwhile, a competitive bidding process for the remaining 295 units aims to stimulate innovation within India’s defence manufacturing sector and bolster indigenous capabilities.
Zorawar: The Cutting-Edge Light Tank
Weighing approximately 25 tons and powered by a robust 750 horsepower engine, the Zorawar Light Tank seamlessly integrates firepower with exceptional mobility. Its primary armament includes a 105mm gun capable of deploying various types of ammunition, including tube-launched Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs). It has a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and smoke grenade launchers for enhanced operational flexibility.
The tank ensures superior situational awareness critical for modern warfare operations. It features two advanced electro-optical systems for hunter-killer capabilities, thermal imaging and laser range finders. The tank’s lightweight design provides distinct advantages in high-altitude operations, excelling in crossing obstacles such as river crossings, rocky terrains, and snow-covered landscapes where heavier tanks face limitations. Notably, the Zorawar’s ability to be airlifted by a C-17 aircraft underscores its strategic flexibility, enabling the rapid deployment of up to two tanks simultaneously to remote and critical areas along the challenging terrain of the LAC.
Zorawar vs. Type 15: A Comparative Analysis
China’s deployment of the Type 15 tank, weighing 35 tons with a 105mm gun and a powerful 1000 horsepower engine, presents a significant strategic challenge along the LAC. India’s introduction of the Zorawar Light Tank, weighing 25 tons and equipped with a 750 horsepower engine, underscores its superior power-to-weight ratio of 30 compared to the Type 15’s 28.5. Despite its lighter weight, the Zorawar matches the Type 15 in firepower and tactical capabilities while excelling in manoeuvrability and logistical flexibility, which are critical for maintaining operational readiness in Ladakh’s challenging terrain and unpredictable weather.
The Zorawar’s comparable firepower ensures it can effectively engage targets similar to the Type 15, while its enhanced manoeuvrability allows for agile navigation through mountainous and high-altitude landscapes. This capability facilitates rapid deployment and strategic positioning in defensive and offensive operations. Furthermore, Zorawar’s logistical adaptability enables efficient operation in remote and austere environments, mitigating logistical challenges exacerbated by Ladakh’s geographical constraints.
Conclusion
The ongoing development of the Zorawar Light Tank marks a significant leap in India’s defence capabilities. As it undergoes trials, the Zorawar showcases not just competitive but superior firepower compared to China’s Type 15 tank along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Its lightweight design further enhances its agility and operational flexibility in challenging terrains, highlighting India’s commitment to bolstering border defences with innovative solutions and strategic readiness.
Vinay Sadham
