India's Zorawar Light Tank Completes First Phase Of Developmental Field Firing Trials

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the preliminary automotive and firing trials for India’s new light tank, Zorawar.

This tank, capable of deployment in high-altitude operations in regions like Ladakh and the Northeast, was unveiled in July 2024.

"Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on September 13, 2024, successfully conducted the preliminary automotive trials of the Indian light Tank, Zorawar, a highly versatile platform capable of deployment in high-altitude areas," the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

"During the field trials conducted in the desert terrain, the Light Tank demonstrated exceptional performance, efficiently meeting all the intended objectives. In the initial phase, the tank’s firing performance was rigorously evaluated and it achieved the required accuracy on designated targets,” the statement added.

Developed by DRDO in collaboration with private firm Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the Zorawar tankis a fast-track effort to give the Indian Army a mountain-ready tank.

This capability gap became evident during the India-China military standoff in eastern Ladakh, where China deployed lighter and more maneuverable T-15 tanks. In contrast, the Indian Army had to rely on heavier T-90 Bhishma tanks, which were less suited for agile operations in hilly terrain.

The Indian Army plans to induct at least 350 Zorawar light tanks once the platform is ready.

As per current projections, user trials are expected to commence in Ladakh this winter.

Although the India-China standoff has seen no further hostilities since the escalations in May-September 2020, the Indian Army reportedly believes that high-altitude regions will continue to serve as critical operational bases for light tank regiments in the future.

Zorawar tank' role extends beyond engaging enemy armor, as it is designed to play a critical role in supporting infantry operations.

Its capacity to manoeuvre across difficult terrain and deliver sustained firepower can be crucial in high-altitude conflict zones.

The Zorawar light tank would enable Indian infantry to operate with greater confidence, knowing they have reliable armored support even in the most challenging environments.

Also Read: Hindus In Bangladesh Take To Streets, Demand Swift Action Over Attacks On Minorities; Accuse Mainstream Media Of Ignoring Their Plight