In response to the standoff with China in Eastern Ladakh and drawing lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed and tested its first "mountain tank," the Zorawar.
This 25-tonne, air-transportable combat vehicle is designed for high-altitude deployment, particularly along India's mountainous border with China.
The Zorawar, which translates to "courageous" in Punjabi, has been developed in a remarkably short span of three years and is expected to be inducted into the Army within the next three. The project is named after General Zorawar Singh Kahluria, a renowned military leader who expanded the Dogra territory by conquering Ladakh.
This light tank's capabilities make it highly suitable for rapid deployment in border areas via helicopters. Experts believe it will be effective even in challenging weather and terrain conditions, particularly on the northern border and in desert areas.
The tank is equipped with robust armour for its category, can traverse water obstacles, and has a land speed of about 60 kilometers per hour. Its armament includes the Cockerill 3105 turret with a 105-millimeter calibre gun, with provisions for machine guns and anti-tank guided missiles.
The Zorawar's ability to fire at high angles of elevation allows it to perform a limited artillery role. Its modular design also ensures it can be upgraded in the future. The Indian Army plans to deploy 350 of these tanks, primarily in mountainous terrain.
The successful development of the Zorawar is a significant milestone in India's journey toward self-reliance in critical defence technologies. It addresses the need for a lighter, more agile tank suitable for high-altitude combat, a capability gap identified after the confrontation with China.
While the Arjun, a third-generation main battle tank, is effective, its heavier weight limits its deployment in hilly terrain. The Zorawar is expected to fill this crucial gap and enhance India's defence capabilities in challenging border regions.
