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Successful Preliminary Trials of Indian Light Tank Zorawar
Context:
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the first phase of developmental field firing trials for the Indian Light Tank, ‘Zorawar’.
- This event is a key step towards India’s self-reliance in defence technology and improving the capabilities of its armed forces.
Key Highlights:
- The trials, conducted on September 13, 2024, showcased the exceptional capabilities of the Zorawar tank in the challenging desert terrain.
- The Zorawar Light Tank, developed by the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), a unit of DRDO, in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro Ltd., demonstrated remarkable performance, efficiently meeting all the intended objectives.
- During the initial phase, the tank’s firing performance was rigorously evaluated, achieving the required accuracy on designated targets.
- This phase of trials is a testament to the tank’s versatility and its potential for deployment in high-altitude areas.
- Numerous Indian industries, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), played a pivotal role in the development of various sub-systems of the Zorawar tank.
- This collaboration highlights the strength of Indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities within the country.
Strategic Importance:
- Response to Ladakh Standoff: The Zorawar tank was developed in response to the Ladakh standoff with China, addressing the Indian Army’s need to counter Chinese Type 15 light tanks.
- Enhances Military Posture: Designed to counter threats along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), it strengthens India’s military position.
- Agile in Himalayan Terrain: The lightweight and agile design ensures effective manoeuvrability in the rugged Himalayan landscape, critical for operational superiority.
- Indigenisation of Defense Manufacturing: The Zorawar tank is part of India’s strategy to promote self-reliance in defence production.
- Boosts Make in India Initiative: It supports the Make in India initiative, highlighting successful public-private partnerships in defence production.