DRDO and L&T unveil ‘ Zorawar ‘ tank at Hazira, Gujarat ; here are its specifications

July 07, 2024
DRDO and L&T unveil ‘ Zorawar ‘ tank at Hazira, Gujarat ; here are its specifications

Unveiling of Zorawar Light Tank by DRDO and L&T for Indian Army

Surat: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) unveiled the indigenous light tank ‘Zorawar’ on July 6 at L&T’s heavy engineering plant in Hazira, Gujarat. This tank aims to strengthen the Indian armed forces stationed along the border with China in Ladakh.

Specifications of Zorawar Tank:

  1. Development and Trials:

    • Developed in a record two years.
    • Initial internal trials took place in Hazira, Gujarat.
    • Comprehensive trials expected to last 12 to 18 months.
    • First 59 tanks will be handed over to the Indian Army, with plans for 295 more.

  2. Weight and Size:

    • Weighs 25 tons, half the weight of heavy tanks like the T-90.
    • Designed to operate in hilly areas and challenging terrains.

  3. Mobility:

    • Capable of navigating a 20-degree incline, engineered for inclines exceeding 30 degrees.
    • Lightweight and amphibious capabilities for navigating steep mountain climbs and crossing water bodies.

  4. Armament:

    • Equipped with a 105-mm rifled gun.
    • Includes a Multi-Ranging Sensor (MRS).
    • Features a BEL Remote Weapon Station (RWS).
    • Safran Paseo optics for enhanced targeting.
    • Two Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs).
    • New Light Weight Rifle (LWR).

  5. Protection:

    • Provisions for an Active Protection System (APS).
    • Add-on modular armor blocks.
    • Fitted with Composite Rubber Tracks (CRT) for better traction and mobility.
    • Additional cameras for enhanced functionality and situational awareness.

  6. Operational Capabilities:

    • Capable of engaging a range of targets, including tanks, armored vehicles, UAVs, and precision-guided munitions.
    • Designed with insights from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

  7. Transport and Deployment:

    • Dimensions facilitate transport by air, road, or water.
    • Capable of operating in all weather conditions.

  8. Engine:

    • Powered by an American engine.

  9. Historical and Cultural Significance:

    • Named after Dogra General Zorawar Singh, who led military campaigns in Ladakh and Western Tibet.

Conclusion:

DRDO Chief Dr. Samir V. Kamat expressed pride in the project’s success and highlighted that the tank’s development and initial trials have been completed within two years. The Zorawar tank is expected to be inducted into the Indian Army by 2027 after all trials are completed.  It is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army in the challenging terrains of Ladakh. DeshGujarat

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