India Unveils First Mountain Tank ‘Zorawar’ After Trials

September 16, 2024

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has created India’s first locally-made tank specifically designed for mountain warfare, called Zorawar. This tank was developed in response to rising geopolitical tensions, especially with China in Eastern Ladakh, and lessons learned from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. After successful trials, it is ready for deployment in high-altitude regions.

Specifications of the Zorawar Tank

Weight: The tank weighs 25 tonnes, making it lighter and ideal for use in mountain terrain.
Mobility: It can be transported by air, including helicopters, allowing it to be quickly deployed in hard-to-reach areas.
Speed: Zorawar can move at a speed of about 60 kilometers per hour on land.
Armament: It is equipped with a powerful Cockerill 3105 turret, which has a 105-millimeter gun. It also has provisions for machine guns and anti-tank guided missiles.

Development Timeline

The development of Zorawar took about three years. It was named after General Zorawar Singh Kahluria, a well-known military leader known for his strategic achievements in Ladakh. The tank is expected to be fully inducted into the Indian Army within the next three years.

Significance of Trials

The preliminary trials of Zorawar were successful, which is a big step forward for India in achieving self-reliance in defense technologies. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called this a “significant milestone.” The tank performed well in desert terrain, and it is expected to show equally impressive results in mountainous and harsh weather conditions.

Strategic Importance

The Indian Army plans to deploy around 350 Zorawar tanks, especially in mountainous regions. These tanks are much lighter and more suitable for hilly terrains compared to the heavier Arjun main battle tanks. This shift is crucial to ensure the army has the right equipment for different types of landscapes, especially in high-altitude areas like Ladakh.

Zorawar has a modular design, which means it can be upgraded with new technology and weapons over time. This flexibility ensures that the tank will remain relevant as combat needs and technology evolve, making it a valuable asset for the Indian Armed Forces.

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