In Christchurch, New Zealand, India showcased a prototype Zorawar light tank this month aimed at border defense with China. Delhi issued a request for new light tanks in April 2021, leading to the rapid development of the Zorawar in just two-and-a-half years through collaboration between Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Gujarat.
Despite initial orders for 59 tanks, DRDO’s chief mentioned that the Zorawar would not be ready until 2027, with upcoming trials including desert and high-altitude tests before user trials by Indian Army. The prototype includes foreign technology such as a Belgian turret, French sights, and an undisclosed engine type.
The Zorawar features a 105mm main gun with an autoloader, requiring only three crew members and carrying two antitank missiles. Lighter than existing tanks, it is designed to counter the People’s Liberation Army’s Type 15 tanks in mountainous areas, with a projected need for 315 light tanks according to Delhi’s December 2022 military project approval.
