Zorawar Light Tank and its Relevance in UPSC

Zorawar Light Tank UPSC: The Zorawar Light Tank plays an important role in the journey of India's indigenous defence manufacturing. It is developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The name of the Zorawar Light Tank, after the legendary Dogra General Zorawar Singh, showcases its ability and power. Recently, defence officials shared that the prototype of the country’s indigenous light tank, Zorawar, is all set for extensive trials. It is expected to be incorporated into the Indian Army by 2027, upon completing all the trials. Light tanks are important in current military strategy because of their mobility and adaptability. The Zorawar Light Tank is designed to succeed in a variety of terrains, including hilly areas, making it an invaluable asset to the Indian Armed Forces.

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Need for Zorawar Light Tank

In April 2021, the army sent a “Request for Information” for 350 light-weighing tanks which is not more than 25 tonnes. The Zorawar Light Tank was required due to the operational challenges faced during the 2020 standoff with China in Eastern Ladakh. It was caused by the complex terrains of the Indian subcontinent, especially in the high-altitude regions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The need for a lighter, more capable tank capable of functioning in challenging environments became quite evident.

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Key Features of Zorawar Light Tank

Here are the key features of the Zorawar Light Tank shared below for reference purposes.

• The most important feature of the Zorawar is its weight. It is designed to be light and air-transportable as it weighs no more than 25 tonnes. It is significantly lighter as compared to traditional main battle tanks.
• Despite its lightweight and compact size, the Zorawar comprises an efficient main gun that has the capability of handling numerous targets. It also has advanced fire control systems for specific targeting.
• The tank is built with a priority on offering protection against a wide range of threats, including anti-tank-guided missiles and advanced explosive devices.
• The Zorawar is equipped with superior mobility, allowing it to handle challenging situations in complex terrain seamlessly. It ensures high operational flexibility due to low ground pressure.
• The tank has modern technology, including advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, communication systems, drone integration and night-fighting capabilities.
• The Zorawar is built to execute various roles and responsibilities, including power, mobility and fire support. This combination is optimised in a manner for weight maintenance.

Zorawar Light Tank and Relevance for UPSC

UPSC candidates must understand the Zorawar Light Tank's development, specs, and strategic value. It highlights India's technical breakthroughs in defence and contributes to national security, which is an important topic in the UPSC syllabus.

Incorporating the Zorawar Light Tank into the Indian Army will boost its operational capabilities in mountainous and complex terrains. It offers the army an advantage in handling potential war scenarios. Moreover, the development of the Zorawar is proof of India's growth in defence manufacturing. It reflects the ability of the country to build innovative military equipment to fulfil its specific needs.

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