Context: Recently the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted successful initial automotive trials of the Indian light tank Zorawar.

Zorawar Light Tank

• It is an indigenously designed and developed light tank.

• It has been developed by the Combat Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro Limited.

• Note: CVRDE is a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

• It is named after a military general Zorawar Singh Kahluria.

• It has been designed to operate in various terrains ranging from high altitude areas and border areas to island territories.

• It will be equipped with all the modern technologies like artificial intelligence, drone integration and amphibious operations capability.

• After all the tests, it is expected to be inducted into the Indian Army by the year 2027.

Key Features of Zorawar

• Mobility and Deployment:

• Weight: 25 tonnes, making it light enough for air transport by helicopter.

• Speed: Capable of traveling at about 60 kilometers per hour on land.

• Deployment: Designed for high-altitude areas and able to perform effectively in both mountainous and desert terrains.

• Armament:

• Main Gun: Equipped with a Cockerill 3105 turret, featuring a 105-millimetre calibre gun.

• Additional Armament: Can be fitted with machine guns and anti-tank guided missiles.

• Fire Capability: Capable of firing at high angles, allowing it to perform limited artillery roles.

• Durability and Design:

• Armor: Strong armor for its category, providing enhanced protection.

• Water Mobility: Can wade through water, adding to its versatility.

• Modularity: Built in a modular fashion to allow for future upgrades and modifications.